Abstract
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the role of serine protease inhibitor Kazal-type 5 (SPINK5) polymorphisms (Asn368Ser, Asp386Asn and Glu420Lys) and the risk of atopic dermatitis (AD). METHODS: Studies associated with SPINK5 mutations and AD risk were searched from three databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane library, with a retrieval deadline of April 22, 2019. An odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI) was chosen as the effect size. Egger's linear regression test was enrolled to assess the level of publication bias. RESULTS: Overall, 6 studies met the inclusion criteria for meta-analysis. Significantly statistical differences were calculated between patients with AD and healthy individuals on Asn368Ser polymorphism in the allele model (G vs A: OR = 1.2643, 95% CI = 1.0666-1.4987, P = .0069), co-dominant model (GG vs AA: OR = 1.6609, 95% CI = 1.1736-2.3505, P = .0042; GA vs AA: OR = 1.5448, 95% CI = 1.1263-2.1189, P = .0070), and dominant model (GG+GA vs AA: OR = 1.5700, 95% CI = 1.1656-2.1146, P = .0030). However, no statistically significant difference was found in the recessive model for Asn368Ser and other genetic models for Asp386Asn and Glu420Lys (all P > .05). No significant publication bias was found. CONCLUSION: The SPINK5 Asn368Ser polymorphism may be a risk factor for AD.