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

Background: 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. Objectives: 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. Materials & Methods: 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. Results: CS (positive patch test for ≥1 contact allergen) was reported in 32%, atopy (positive prick test for ≥1 inhalable allergen) in 38%, and TNFa 308G>A polymorphism in 23% of subjects. Based on multivariate analysis, atopy was confirmed as apredictor 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). Conclusion: These findings could be relevant for evaluation of individual susceptibility to developing a contact allergy, particularly among persons occupationally exposed to skin hazards.