A TREM-1 Polymorphism A/T within the Exon 2 Is Associated with Pneumonia in Burn-Injured Patients

Background. The triggering receptor expressed in myeloid cells (TREM-1) is a key mediator in the activation of the local inflammatory response during lung infections. We aimed to evaluate the effect of a functionally relevant TREM-1 single nucleotide polymorphism within the exon 2 (A→T) on the development of pneumonia in burn patients. Objective. To determine whether a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) within the exon 2 (A→T) in the TREM-1 gene is associated with ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in burn-injured patients. Methods. 540 patients with ≥10% total body surface area (TBSA) burn injuries or inhalation injury were prospectively enrolled. The influence of a polymorphism (A→T) in exon 2 of the TREM-1 gene was evaluated for association with increased risk of pneumonia by logistic regression analysis. Measurements and Main Results. 209 patients met criteria for VAP. Multivariate regression analysis showed that, after adjustment for potential confounders, we found that carriage of the TREM-1 T allele is associated with more than a 3-fold increased risk of VAP (OR 6.3, 95% CI 4-9). Conclusions. A TREM-1 single nucleotide polymorphism within the exon 2 (A→T) is associated with the development of pneumonia in burn patients.