Allergy
Milk Protein / Casein Allergy Test
Allergy
Tests for IgE-mediated allergy to cow's milk protein (casein).
VAT-exempt medical service
Cow's milk allergy is one of the most common food allergies, especially in children. It occurs when the immune system reacts to proteins in cow's milk, primarily casein and whey. Symptoms can range from mild skin rashes and digestive discomfort to severe breathing difficulties and anaphylaxis. This IgE blood test helps confirm whether your symptoms are caused by an allergic reaction to milk proteins.
This test is recommended if you experience digestive symptoms such as cramps, bloating, or diarrhoea after consuming dairy, skin issues like eczema or rashes, breathing symptoms such as wheezing or nasal congestion, or if you need to diagnose children with suspected food allergies. It helps distinguish milk allergy from lactose intolerance, which is an enzyme deficiency rather than an immune reaction.
What a high value can mean
Elevated IgE levels indicate an allergic reaction to cow's milk proteins. This supports a diagnosis of cow's milk allergy and may explain symptoms like eczema, gastrointestinal distress, or respiratory problems after dairy consumption.
What a low value can mean
Low or negative IgE levels make an IgE-mediated cow's milk allergy less likely. However, non-IgE-mediated reactions, such as lactose intolerance or other forms of milk hypersensitivity, may still cause symptoms after dairy consumption.
No special preparation is required. No fasting needed. Bring your ID to the sampling location. Bring valid ID to your appointment.
Order your test
Choose your test and pay online. Your lab referral is created straight away.
Give your sample
Visit any of our partner sampling locations. No appointment needed at most of them.
The lab analyses it
Your sample is analysed at an accredited Swedish laboratory.
Get your results
Your values appear in your account with reference ranges and an explanation of each marker.
No. Milk allergy is an immune reaction to milk proteins, whereas lactose intolerance is an inability to digest lactose (milk sugar) due to a lack of the enzyme lactase. They require different tests and management approaches.
Yes. Many children outgrow cow's milk allergy by age 3 to 5, though some may retain sensitivity into adulthood. Regular follow-up testing can help determine if the allergy has resolved.
This test is specific to cow's milk proteins. However, there is significant cross-reactivity between cow, goat, and sheep milk proteins, so a positive result may suggest sensitivity to other animal milks as well.
You should consult a doctor or dietitian for a personalised elimination plan. Typical recommendations include avoiding cow's milk, cheese, yogurt, butter, cream, and any processed foods containing milk proteins.