Individual susceptibility to contact sensitization: the role of TNFα 308G>A polymorphism and atopy.

Abstract

The significance of individual risk factors in the development of contact allergy, such as genetic variation in cytokine genes and atopy, is still not clearly defined. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between TNFα 308G>A polymorphism or atopy and contact sensitization (CS) in a cohort from the general Croatian population. The study involved 312 first-year students from the University of Zagreb (median age: 19 years). Methods included a questionnaire and skin prick and patch testing for common inhalable and contact allergens, respectively, as well as genotyping for TNFα 308G>A polymorphism based on buccal swabs. CS (positive patch test for ≥1 contact allergen) was reported in 32%, atopy (positive prick test for ≥1 inhalable allergen) in 38%, and TNFα 308G>A polymorphism in 23% of subjects. Based on multivariate analysis, atopy was confirmed as a predictor of CS, poly-sensitization, CS to p-phenylenediamine and cobalt chloride, and self-reported skin symptoms. TNFα 308G>A polymorphism was confirmed as a predictor of CS to p-phenylenediamine (OR: 5.72; 95%CI 1.20-27.28). These findings could be relevant for evaluation of individual susceptibility to developing a contact allergy, particularly among persons occupationally exposed to skin hazards.