Pediatrics Shelf Exam Sample Questions

The correct answer is D. Cow’s milk protein allergy is the most common cause of chronic diarrhea in children 6 months to two years.

Explanation: Cow’s milk protein allergy has various presentations. Cow’s milk colitis and procto-colitis are most commonly seen in children who are3 months of age or younger, usually with blood-streaked stools and no other symptoms of illness, although some infants may have mucus, diarrhea, and tenesmus. The affected infants otherwise appear healthy and have normal growth and development. Cow’s milk protein allergy is the most common cause of chronic diarrhea in children between the ages of 6 months and two years. (A) Allergic enterocolitis is common in breastfed babies and is thought to be the result of milk protein in the mother’s diet. (C) The prevalence of cow’s milk protein-induced enteropathy is declining in developed countries, most likely due to improved infant formulas. (D) Soy formulas are not hypoallergenic and they are recommended only for treatment of infants with IgE mediated symptoms of milk allergy.