Folic Acid May Prevent Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer in Renal Transplant Recipients

Polymorphisms in the methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase gene suggest a possible benefit from supplementation.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a major cutaneous problem in renal transplant recipients. Investigators evaluated two pathways for genetic associations of SCC that might be modifiable by vitamin supplementation. Polymorphisms in the 5,10-methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase gene (MTHFR) and the vitamin D receptor gene (VDR) have been linked to malignancy. MTHFR has also been linked to risk for colorectal carcinoma, pancreatic cancer, endometrial cancer, gastric cancer, and leukemia, as well as to neural tube defects and cardiovascular disease. In dermatology, MTHFR polymorphisms have been linked to thrombophilic disorders, especially livedoid vasculopathy. MTHFR polymorphisms might also be associated with methotrexate toxicity.

These author…

Reviewing Author

Jeffrey P. Callen, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board XOMA; Eli Lilly; Celgene

Equity Various trust accounts

Editorial boards JAMA Dermatology; UpToDate

Leadership positions in professional societies Association of Professors of Dermatology (President-Elect)