Lactose intolerance and lactase deficiency

Prognosis for patients with lactase deficiency with a clinical syndrome of lactose intolerance is excellent with lactose reduction. Persistent symptoms in a small number of patients are either due to ongoing inadvertent lactose exposure (especially from hidden lactose), irritable bowel syndrome, or poorly controlled underlying disorders of secondary lactase deficiency. Treatment is lifelong, and adherence may be a problem, especially in children.