Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-308, -1031, and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) DD/II polymorphisms' role in Behcet's disease with and without uveitis: a meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: There are conflicting results of studies investigating the association between the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene polymorphisms and Behcet's disease (BD). The aim of this meta-analysis is to assess the association between these gene polymorphisms and ocular involvement in BD.

METHODS

We identified relevant studies and reviewed the full-text manuscripts of the studies in order to select those for inclusion. Heterogeneity of studies was evaluated using Cochran Q-test and I-square index. To modify the heterogeneity in the variables we used random effects model. Meta-analysis was performed using STATA.

RESULTS

We analyzed TNF-1031, -308 and ACE DD/II genotype difference between BD patients with and without uveitis. Among these polymorphic genetic loci TNF-308 AA genotype has a statistically significant protective effect against BD uveitis (OR = 0.45 vs 1.23, p = .017). Such a statistically significant effect was not seen for other studied genotypes.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis revealed a significant protective effect of TNF-308 AA genotype against ocular involvement in Behcet's disease.