A Baby with Cow's Milk and Soy Protein Allergy

2/5/2008

I saw a three month old baby for a follow up today who had a very scaly, dry scalp on initial visit several weeks ago. At the time the baby had a very red, scaly scalp which involved the external ear canals as well. The baby was very uncomfortable and likely very itchy. Until that point the baby was fed a milk based infant formula. The mother eventually attempted a soy based infant formula with the hope that the change would have allowed healthier skin. The scalp irritation worsened during that time.

Upon initial consultation, I suggested a switch to a pre-digested protein hydrolysate infant formula with the belief that this baby had a milk protein and soy protein allergy or sensitivity. The mother was somewhat resistant to this suggestion as she felt that this was a dramatic suggestion. Despite her apprehension, she switched formulas as suggested. Within three weeks the skin improved dramatically with virtually normal skin throughout the scalp and ears. The baby is now sleeping well and not irritable at all. This is a happy ending with an easy solution to a common problem.

      

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