Objective: To explore the relationship between genetic polymorphisms of XPD gene and susceptibility to chronic benzene poisoning.
Methods: A case control study was conducted. Eighty patients diagnosed with chronic benzene poisoning and 62 workers occupationally exposed to benzene who were engaged in the same working time and job title as patients were investigated. PCR-RFLP was used for detecting the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on codon156, codon312 and codon751 of XPD gene.
Results: There was a 2.903 times (95% CI: 1.054 - 7.959, P = 0.039 2) increased risk of chronic benzene poisoning in the subjects carrying XPD 751Gln variant allele compared with those carrying XPD 751Lys/Lys genotype, after adjusted for sex, length of service, smoking and drinking status.
Conclusion: The subjects with XPD 751Gln variant allele are more susceptive to benzene.