Milk Soy Protein Intolerance (MSPI) is an immune responce to proteins found primarily in beef, dairy and soy products. In rare cases, the immune responce can be triggered by proteins found in legumes, nuts, fish, seafood, eggs, cocoa and some other foods.
Ingestion of minute quantities of the offending foods can cause a reaction for as many as 10-14 days. The quantities are so small, that breastfed infants who suffer from MSPI can be affected by foods consumed by their mother.
The only treatment for MSPI is complete avoidance of the offending foods. MSPI is considered a Type-4 (non IgE-mediated) allergy, and is often referred to as an intolerance. This is not to be confused with Type-1 allergies (IgE-mediated) which give cause anaphylaxis or hives, etc.
Type-4 allergies like MSPI are often due immaturity of the immune system, and most children will eventually outgrow the condition by 12 months. In some rare cases the symptoms persist until age 2.
The main symptoms of MSPI are irritability (colic) and blood in the stool. Other common manifestations are diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, acid reflux, gas and failure to thrive.
If your child exhibits any of these symptoms and you are concerned that they may be suffering from MSPI, please consult your pediatrician.
