['To determine whether polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes encoding cytokines and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) might play some role in lumbar disc herniation (LDH).', 'Case-control study in which 179 patients were retrospectively reviewed. The case group was made of 50 patients with symptomatic LDH diagnosed by MRI while the control group was made of 129 individuals undergoing routine hip or knee arthroplasty with a lifetime lack of low back pain. SNPs in the cytokine genes of IL-1 [IL-1α (-889 C/T), IL-1β (+3953 T/C)], TNF-α (-308 G/A and -238 G/A) and NOS genes [eNOS (r 27 bp, intron 4 and -786 T/C) and iNOS (22 G/A)].', 'The CC genotype and C allele of the IL-1β (+3953 T/C) SNP were significantly more frequent among LDH patients compared to controls. On the other hand, eNOS (-768 T/C) and iNOS (22 G/A) SNPs were significantly more common in the control group.'] Does the IL-1β ( +3953 T/C ) gene polymorphism associate to symptomatic lumbar disc herniation?