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Allergic colitis is a condition in which the lining of the colon becomes inflamed due to an allergic reaction to certain foods or substances.
It is most commonly seen in infants and young children who are allergic to proteins in cow's milk, soy, or other foods. The immune system of some infants and young children mistakenly identifies these proteins as foreign invaders and reacts to them by producing antibodies, causing inflammation and damage to the lining of the colon. The exact cause of this abnormal immune response is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve genetic and environmental factors. Certain genetic variations may increase the risk of developing an allergy, while environmental factors such as exposure to certain foods or chemicals may trigger or worsen the condition. Allergic colitis is more commonly seen in infants who are formula-fed, as cow's milk or soy-based formula contains proteins that can trigger the allergic reaction.
The primary treatment for allergic colitis is to eliminate the allergen from the child's diet. In the case of cow's milk protein allergy, switching to a hypoallergenic or elemental formula may be necessary. In some cases, breastfeeding mothers may also need to eliminate cow's milk and soy from their own diets. For infants who have started solid foods, avoiding foods that contain the allergen is important. If other foods are being introduced, it is important to do so gradually and one at a time, so that any allergic reactions can be identified and avoided. If the child is not growing properly due to the condition, nutritional supplements or specialized formulas may be recommended. In some cases, medications such as corticosteroids or immunomodulators may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to the child's specific needs and to ensure that the child is receiving adequate nutrition. In most cases, with proper treatment, the prognosis for allergic colitis is good, and many children outgrow the allergy by the age of 3-5 years.