Vitamin D receptor genetic polymorphisms in severe and recurrent tuberculosis in children

Aim To analyze the genetic polymorphisms of vitamin D receptor FokI, TaqI, ApaI and BsmI gene polymorphisms in children with severe and recurrent tuberculosis (TB). Methods A prospective, observational study was conducted in 35 children with severe and recurrent TB referred to our Pediatric TB clinic at a tertiary referral center for children. The blood samples were analysed for genetic polymorphisms of Vitamin D receptor with respect to FokI, TaqI, ApaI and BsmI genotypes and their individual alleles and association of various clinical and laboratory parameters were analysed. Result Ten (28.6%) children had recurrent TB and 26 (74.3%) had severe TB. The severity of TB was not associated with Ff and ff polymorphism of FokI (Odd's ratio 7.88) as compared to no FokI polymorphism. Absence of FokI polymorphism was associated with recurrent lymph node TB (Odds ratio 3.429). Presence of Tt polymorphism of TaqI (p = 0.04) and Fok1 Polymorphism [Odds ratio 7.88] were not associated with recurrent TB. Conclusion Recurrent TB was absent in presence of Tt polymorphism of TaqI. Severe TB was not associated polymorphism of Vitamin D receptor polymorphisms.