Value of lymphoblast transformation test in cow's milk protein intestinal intolerance

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Lymphoblast transformation tests were carried out in the presence of α‐lactalbumin and β‐lactoglobulin. In patients with cow's milk protein intestinal intolerance in seventeen of forty‐five (37·8%) the lymphoblast transformation tests were positive. Sensitization in the first month of life seemed to favour lymphoblast transformation. In control children in only four of forty‐three (9·5%) the lymphoblast transformation tests were positive, the difference from intolerant patients being significant 0·01 < P < 0·001. Lymphoblast transformation tests were negative in the seven children with active coeliac disease. Although a negative test does not exclude cow's milk protein intolerance, lymphoblast transformation tests can be considered a useful aid in diagnosis because of its specificity.