Test: Skin Prick Test - Cow's Milk

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Background/Purpose

Cow's milk allergy is a common diagnosis in infants and children. It characteristically presents as an allergic reaction to the protein found in cow’s milk. Cow's milk allergy manifests as a variety of symptoms and signs which commonly develop in infants and can regress by the age of 6. It can be a source of parental and family stress due to a milk-free diet and can lead to a subsequent nutritional deficiency if not treated appropriately.

Procedure

The test area is cleaned and labeled using an appropriate skin marker. When multiple tests are being performed there should be a minimum of of 3cm between them. The skin is pricked lightly and quickly vertically through the sample allergen . A new micro lancet should be used for each substance being tested. The excess sample allergen should be removed immediately with an absorbent paper towel.
The wheals should be read after 15-20 minutes. For a positive reaction, the wheal should be >= 3mm in diameter. A valid result also requires a positive histamine reaction >=3mm and a negative saline control reaction of < 3mm.
Performed: Bilaterally

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Subcutaneous test of cow's milk allergens.

Criteria

• <3mm wheal
• No systemic reaction

Measurement

LOINC Code

Scale/Grading

selection range; grade - LOINC ID
Option - Value option selection range; grade - LOINC IDPass ; Pass - Equivocal ; Fail - Fail ; Fail -