Association between Variants of Mast Cell Chymase Gene and Serum IgE Levels in Eczema

Abstract

851 school children aged at 12-13 years including 145 with eczema were tested for genetic association to a mast cell chymase (MCC) genetic variant. MCC genotypes showed a strong association with eczema, but not with asthma and rhinitis. This association is strongest in eczematous children with lower serum total IgE levels. Independent of IgE responsiveness when total serum IgE of less than 500 IU/ml, MCC variants may play an important role in inflammatory skin disorders.