Objective: Cow’s milk protein allergy is among the most common food allergies in early childhood, yet its clinical spectrum can range from mild intolerance to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Rarely, affected children may react not only to ingestion but also to skin contact or inhalation of trace milk proteins. This report presents a detailed case of persistent and extreme hypersensitivity, illustrating the complex immunologic and psychosocial impact of the disease and highlighting the unmet need for refined preventive and therapeutic approaches.
Methods: A single pediatric case was analyzed through continuous clinical observation from infancy to seven years of age. The report integrates serial measurements of milk protein–specific immunoglobulin E, documentation of allergic reactions, dietary and environmental management, and psychosocial outcomes. The case description is complemented by a concise review of scientific literature on severe and airborne food allergies.
Results: The child exhibited immediate allergic reactions to early milk exposure and developed progressive sensitization over time, culminating in multiple anaphylactic episodes caused by minimal oral, contact, and airborne exposure. Laboratory assessments confirmed rising immunoglobulin E levels despite prolonged elimination of milk from the diet and environment. The literature review identified few comparable cases, confirming the rarity of such severe and persistent allergic phenotypes.
Conclusions: Extreme hypersensitivity to cow’s milk proteins challenges current concepts of allergy management and tolerance development. This case emphasizes the need for multidisciplinary care, structured education on anaphylaxis response, and greater community awareness to safeguard children with life-threatening food allergies.