Korean J Dermatol.  2019 Aug;57(7):363-370.

Comparison of Clinical Features according to FLG Mutation in Korean Atopic Dermatitis Patients

• Lee H
• Wang HY
• Lee H
• Choi EH

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Mutation in the gene encoding filaggrin (FLG) is a major predisposing factor for atopic dermatitis (AD), in association with distinct features such as increased allergic sensitization, higher severity, and frequent skin infections. Genetic diversity in FLG mutations exists across ethnicities.
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to investigate the clinical features of AD according to the presence of FLG mutation in Korean individuals.
METHODS
We performed reverse blot hybridization assay to detect FLG mutation in Korean patients with AD. Classifying subjects into AD with or without FLG mutation, clinical features of AD and patch test results were compared between the two groups.
RESULTS
Among a total of 281 subjects, 39 (13.9%) were found to have FLG mutation. AD with FLG mutation was associated with higher risk of impetigo and eczema herpeticum but lower risk of prurigo nodularis. In the patch test, there was no difference in positive reactions of major contact allergens between the groups.
CONCLUSION
In Korean patients with AD, FLG mutation was associated with more frequent skin infections but not with personal or family history of atopic diseases, allergic sensitization, contact allergy, and protracted course. It is important to consider other skin-barrier-related genes, such as KLK7 and SPINK5, and immune response-related genes in conjunction.

Keyword

Atopic dermatitis; Filaggrin; Skin barrier; Reverse blot hybridization assay

MeSH Terms

Allergens
Causality
Dermatitis, Atopic*
Genetic Variation
Humans
Hypersensitivity
Impetigo
Kaposi Varicelliform Eruption
Patch Tests
Prurigo
Skin
Allergens