Component Resolved Diagnostics for Cow’s Milk Allergy in Children: a
systematic review of diagnostic test accuracy
Abstract
Background: The role of Component Resolved Diagnostics (CRD) in
the diagnosis of cow’s milk allergy (CMA) remains highly controversial.
In this systematic review, we aimed to evaluate the accuracy of CRD in
diagnosing CMA in children. Methods: We searched four
electronic databases (EMBASE, PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Web of
Science) from January 1, 2000, to March 27, 2023, for studies that
utilized milk composition and oral food challenges (OFC) as a reference
standard in patients with suspected milk allergy. The quality of the
included studies was assessed using QUADAS-2. Due to the heterogeneity
of the studies, a meta-analysis could not be performed, and a narrative
synthesis of the findings was conducted. Results: Our analysis
included 5 prospective studies, 2 retrospective studies, and 2
case-control studies, with a total of 958 children. The sensitivity of
Bos d 4 ranged from 0.50 to 0.82, and specificity from 0.78 to 0.98. Bos
d 5 sensitivity 0.24-1.0, and specificity 0.58-0.98. Bos d 6 sensitivity
0.09, and specificity 0.94. Bos d 8 sensitivity 0.34-0.90, specificity
0.79-0.98. CONCLUSION: The specific IgE (sIgE) of the Bos d 4,
Bos d 6, and Bos d 8 components of milk is highly specific but not
sensitive in diagnosing cow’s milk allergy in children. The use of CRD
for the diagnosis of CMA in children may reduce the need for OFC.