Close Relationship between Lactose Intolerance and Allergy to Milk Protein

Abstract

Out of 24 milk allergy patients, 12 were proved to be lactose intolerant by the lactose load test. Of these, 10 showed symptoms, such as colic, abdominal distension and/or diarrhea, while two did not. Lactosuria was observed in only three of twelve. Provocative testing with milk protein using lactose-free milk, lactose-free casein or both was carried out on six patients with lactose intolerance. All six showed allergic reactions, indicating that milk protein allergy existed in addition to lactose intolerance. Thus, it seems likely that allergy to milk protein and lactose intolerance are closely related.