Genetic factors of atopic dermatitis

The search for genetic factors of atopic dermatitis is difficult because of several elements: variations of tie definition of pheno-type, uncertainty concerning the best genetic model, interactions between hereditary factors and environmental factors. Family prevalence studies and twin studies have demonstrated importance of hereditary factors. The genetic determinants inv olved in the predisposition to atopic dermatitis are sometimes: common to t hose of respiratory atopy or regulation of IgE levels, but are also sometim es distinct. Several family or populations studies have suggested the role of various genes coding for proteins: beta subunit of rile high affinity Fe receptor of IgE (chromosome ii), major histocompatibility complex class II antigens (chromosome 6), interleukin 4 (chromosome 5), alpha subunit of th e interleukin 4 receptor (chromosome 16) mast cell chymase (chromosome 14). The of responsible illustrates the genetic multiplicity of genes responsib le heterogeneity phenomenon.