• Between 2 and 7 percent of babies under the age of 1 are affected by MSPI.Newborn image by jhogan from Fotolia.com
  
  Milk soy protein intolerance (MSPI) is a condition in which the body cannot digest the proteins found in cow's milk and soy food products. While adults may develop MSPI, infants and young children are most likely to be affected, with 2 to 7 percent of babies under 1 year old currently living with the condition.
  
  

Rapid-Onset Symptoms

• An infant can begin to experience MSPI symptoms very soon after consuming cow's milk protein either through formula or breast milk from a mother who consumes dairy or soy products. Rapid-onset MSPI is marked by sudden irritability, vomiting, wheezing, swelling, hives, other itchy bumps on the skin and bloody diarrhea. In rare situations, anaphylaxis (severe allergic reactions) may occur.
  
  

Slower-Onset Symptoms

• A baby with MSPI may not exhibit symptoms for as long as 7 to 10 days after consuming milk soy protein. Slower-onset symptoms make MSPI difficult to diagnose as these markers can also signify other medical conditions. Loose and possibly bloody stools, vomiting, gagging, refusing food, irritability or colic, and skin rashes may all point to MSPI.
  
  

Other Signs

• If MSPI is suspected, the doctor can order a biopsy of the patient's intestinal tissue. An increase in the amount eosinophilic cells, eroded intestinal villi, and hemorrhagic tissue inside the intestines confirms the diagnosis of MSPI (see reference 3).