The tumour necrosis factor-α 308G>A genetic polymorphism may contribute to the pathogenesis of acne: a meta-analysis

Summary Background Tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α is considered to play a central role in the pathogenesis of acne. Aim To estimate the association between the TNF‐α 308G>A polymorphism and the pathogenesis of acne. Methods A literature search of the PubMed and CNKI databases from inception to December 2013 was conducted. Meta‐analyses were performed, and the OR and 95% CI calculated. The strength of association was assessed under five genetic models: allele (A vs. G), dominant (AA+AG vs. GG), recessive (AA vs. GG+AG), homozygous (AA vs. GG), and heterozygous (AA vs. AG). Results Seven case–control studies were included, with a total of 987 patients with acne and 1078 healthy controls. The meta‐analysis result showed a significant association between TNF‐α 308G>A and the pathogenesis of acne under the recessive (OR = 3.13, 95% CI 1.67–5.86, P