Which statement best describes cross-reactivity between cow's milk protein allergy and soy protein allergy in infants?

Which statement best describes cross-reactivity between cow's milk protein allergy and soy protein allergy in infants?

• A. Most CMA allergic children will also be allergic to soy protein
• B. Soy protein is always tolerated by CMA children
• C. No relationship
• D. Soy can prevent CMA allergy

Answer: (A)

Cross-reactivity between cow’s milk and soy proteins occurs when the immune system recognizes similar structures in different foods, so a child sensitized to cow’s milk may also react to soy. In infants with cow’s milk protein allergy, soy allergy is more common than in the general population, reflecting this shared allergenic potential and broader atopic tendency. Because of this association, many CMA children are also soy-allergic, which is why this statement best describes their relationship. It’s important to note that not all CMA children are soy-allergic, and some may tolerate soy after careful evaluation, and soy does not prevent CMA.

Cross-reactivity between cow’s milk and soy proteins occurs when the immune system recognizes similar structures in different foods, so a child sensitized to cow’s milk may also react to soy. In infants with cow’s milk protein allergy, soy allergy is more common than in the general population, reflecting this shared allergenic potential and broader atopic tendency. Because of this association, many CMA children are also soy-allergic, which is why this statement best describes their relationship. It’s important to note that not all CMA children are soy-allergic, and some may tolerate soy after careful evaluation, and soy does not prevent CMA.