Genetic Markers of Atopic Dermatitis Risk for Screening Aviation Applicants

INTRODUCTION: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a skin condition with many genetic risk factors. In this review, we summarize the different genetic variants for AD from the perspective of screening purposes within the U.S. Air Force aviation community. Using a PRISMA-informed systematic review approach, we found 13 papers reporting genetic associations with AD. We report 98 genetic associations with AD, of which 4 had a greater than twofold increased odds of developing the condition when present. These 98 variants were found in 45 associated genes, including LRRC32, OVOL1, and IL13, which were each replicated in 3 studies; as well as RTEL1 and ZNF365, which were each replicated in 2 studies. A polygenic risk model created based upon these variants or genes could contribute to a risk screening protocol for military aviation candidates, potentially helping minimize risk for candidates at increased genetic risk for AD or other atopic diseases (e.g., asthma, allergic rhinitis).Gregory ID, Collie J, Chapleau RR.