Which food allergy is considered the most common in pediatric patients?

Cow’s milk allergy is recognized as one of the most common food allergies in pediatric patients, particularly in infants and young children. This type of allergy can manifest when the immune system mistakenly identifies proteins in cow's milk as harmful, leading to various allergic reactions that can include gastrointestinal issues, skin reactions, and respiratory symptoms.

Cow's milk allergy is prevalent because many infants are introduced to cow's milk early in life as a main source of nutrition. The body's immune system is still developing during this time, which can make it more susceptible to allergic reactions. Although many children outgrow this allergy by the time they reach school age, it remains a significant concern during the early years of life.

In comparison, while nut allergies, egg allergies, and soy allergies are also common in children, the prevalence of cow’s milk allergy stands out as particularly high during early childhood. Over time, studies and clinical observations support the classification of cow's milk as one of the leading allergens affecting pediatric populations.