The small-intestinal mucosa in cow's milk allergy.

Two infants investigated for allergy to cow's milk proteins exhibited a local reaginic reaction in the small intestine after ingesting cow's milk, as shown by increased mucosal IgE plasma-cells and degranulation of mast cells. IgM plasma-cells and the staining of connective tissue and basement membranes with antisera to IgG and C3 complement were also increased, indicating several simultaneous immune reactions in the intestinal mucosa. These findings may provide a sound basis for diagnosis of such an allergy and for the treatment of similar patients with disodium cromoglycate.