Dermatoglyphic peculiarities in children with oral clefts

Dermatoglyphics: Prediction for Prevention: An Innovative Tool in our Stash!

Background

Early childhood caries (ECC) has created pandemonium worldwide and so in India which is alarming and accentuates the need to foster novel and effective preventive strategies that are synergistic with the current one. There are different methods to diagnose ECC. Nonetheless, up until now, there has been no method to predict ECC. Dermatoglyphics could be considered a noninvasive and early predictor of dental caries in children, as ECC is a multifactorial disease with the influence of genetic patterns.

Aim

The present study was undertaken to find out a possible relation between some quantitative and qualitative dermatoglyphic variables, ECC, and salivary bacteria.

Materials and methods

The study was carried out on 200 children within the age-group of 36-72 months. The study population was divided into four groups comprising 50 individuals each based on decayed, missing and filled teeth (dmft) score and gender; group I-caries male (dmft ≥ 5), group II-caries free male (dmft score 0), group III-caries female (dmft≥ 5), and group IV-caries free female (dmft score 0). Dermatoglyphic patterns of all 10 palmar digits were recorded and assessed qualitatively and quantitatively.

Results

The caries group showed maximum occurrence of whorls, which were more prevalent in females and decreased frequency of loops when compared to caries free group. There was a significant association of the whorl pattern with the microbial counts of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and Lactobacillus.

Conclusion

There is explicit variation in dermatoglyphic patterns between the ECC and caries-free group indicating a correlation between dermatoglyphic patterns and dental caries.

How to cite this article

Shah SG, Kaul B, Gupta A, et al. Dermatoglyphics: Prediction for Prevention: An Innovative Tool in our Stash! Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(S-1):S101-S108.

Assessment and Correlation of Dactyloscopy, Cheiloscopy, and Rugoscopy Among Individuals With Different Skeletal Malocclusion—A Cross-Sectional Study

Background and Objectives

A probable association between dermatoglyphics and malocclusions related to skeletal discrepancy may exist as dermal ridges, and craniofacial structures develop from the same embryonic tissues during the same embryonic period. The study aims to assess and correlate the pattern of fingerprints, lip prints, and palatal rugae in individuals with malocclusions related to skeletal discrepancy.

Materials and Methods

The 180 samples collected in the study were divided into 3 groups based on cephalometric analysis into class I, II, and III malocclusion. The fingerprints, lip prints, and palatal rugae patterns were obtained for each participant and pattern analysis was done.

Results

Class I malocclusion with no skeletal discrepancy showed a statistically significant difference in the loop fingerprint patterns on all fingers except the first finger on the right and left hand, branched lip pattern, and straight palatal rugae pattern in primary rugae 1 and 4. Class II malocclusion related to skeletal discrepancy showed a statistically significant difference in the loop pattern on all fingers except in the fourth finger of the right hand which showed a whorl pattern, branched lip pattern, and straight palatal rugae pattern in primary rugae 1, 4, and 5. Class III malocclusion related to skeletal discrepancy showed a statistically significant difference in the loop pattern on all fingers except in the fourth finger of the right hand which showed an absence of arch pattern, vertical lip print pattern, and straight palatal rugae pattern in primary rugae 1.

Conclusion

Dermatoglyphics analysis can be used to indicate developing malocclusions related to skeletal discrepancies. at an early age, thereby aiding the development of treatment aiming to establish favorable occlusion. Prospective and various ethnic and racial-based studies would be valuable for the establishment of dermatoglyphic markers of malocclusion.

Association between dermatoglyphic patterns and growth patterns of subjects with skeletal class I relation: A cross sectional study

Background: To assess the relationship between dermatoglyphic patterns and various growth patterns of the mandible.

Methods: Patients with Class I Skeletal relation were selected after clinical diagnosis followed by digitally tracing the cephalogram. The patients were subdivided into three groups of mandibular divergence patterns ie Average, Horizontal and Vertical. 90 samples ie 30 in each group were selected for the study. The fingerprints of all the selected subjects were then extracted digitally and analysed for the most dominant pattern in each hand.

Results: For the left hand, there was a statistically significant (P<0.05) association between fingerprint pattern and growth pattern when Horizontal growers were compared to Average and Vertical Growers. For the right hand, there was a statistically significant (P<0.05) association between fingerprint pattern and growth pattern when Horizontal growers were compared to Average Growers. A significant association (P<0.05) between fingerprint pattern and growth pattern was also found when average growers were compared to vertical growers.

Conclusions: Horizontal growers had 80% frequency of appearance of whorls in their left hand and 67% in their right hand. Horizontal growers could easily be differentiated from the average and vertical growers because of the dominance of whorl pattern in their hands.

Composite and arch pattern were more frequent in vertical growers when compared to horizontal and average growers.

Detection of Dental Caries' and Dermatoglyphics' Association with Relative Enamel Thickness Using CBCT Images in Saudi Subpopulation: A Novel Approach

Background

Dental caries is the localized destruction of dental hard tissues (enamel and dentine). Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index is the most commonly used dental caries index. Thickness of the outermost part of the tooth called the enamel is determined by the rate of deposition of enamel proteins. Relative enamel thickness (RET) gives a measure of enamel thickness with respect to dentine. Dental caries is influenced by a genetically determined factor called dermatoglyphics (DG). As the genes responsible for RET and DG lie on the same chromosome and develop during the same time of intrauterine life, it is biologically plausible to correlate RET and DG.

Aims

This study consists of two primary aims: (1) to assess RET using cone beam computed tomography images and correlate it with caries and (2) to correlate RET with DG.

Materials and Methods

148 dental subjects were assessed for DMFT caries score and were categorized as Group 1 with DMFT = 0 and Group 2 with DMFT ≥ 1. Following this, their DG pattern was recorded digitally. The CBCT images of these subjects were assessed for RET, and the data were analyzed statistically.

Results

Mean RET in our sample population is 18.45 (SD 3.79) while mean DMFT is 5.34 (SD 5.13). Mean RET in Group 1 subjects was 19.82 (SD 4.05) while that in the Group 2 was 17.68 (SD 3.43). RET and DMFT showed a statistically significant negative correlation (p = 0.007). The “Single Loop” DG characteristic showed a statistically significant difference between males and females (p = 0.031). The “Simple Arch” type of DG was positively correlated with RET.

Conclusion

This is the first in vivo study to assess RET using CBCT images and correlate with DMFT and DG. RET is inversely related to DMFT while directly proportional to the “Simple arch” DG pattern. Males and females differed in their “Single Loop” DG characteristic.

A Comparative Evaluation between Dermatoglyphic Patterns and the Permanent Molar Relationships – An Attempt to Predict the Future Malocclusions

Background: Due to the similar duration of development, finding the dermatoglyphic patterns to predict malocclusions can help a pediatric dentist to attempt any necessary preventive and interceptive orthodontic therapies. Aim: To assess the correlation between different dermatoglyphic patterns with the permanent molar relationships. Materials and Methods: 300 children who are 14-16 years old with completely erupted 2nd permanent molars up to occlusal table were recruited and the pattern of molar terminal plane was recorded in the proforma. Finger prints of these subjects were recorded with ink and roller method. Forensic analyst analysed the prints and classified based on the classification given by Galton and also calculated the finger ridge count as given by Cummins and Midlo Statistical analysis used: Chi-Square test was applied to compare proportions between all the groups and also for gender comparison. Fisher’s exact test was used when any expected cell frequency of less than five were obtained. Paired t-Test and McNemar’s test were applied to compare values between right and left hand. Results: Class I children showed absence of arch pattern in thumb and little finger of left hand; and higher total finger ridge count in right hand when compared to left hand. Children with Class II molar relationship had a significant association with presence of arch pattern in thumb finger of left hand; and presence of whorl pattern in both left and right ring fingers. Class III had a significant association with presence of loop pattern in left thumb finger and little finger; absence of arch pattern in thumb of right hand. Conclusion: Dermatoglyphics can be a useful non-invasive analytical tool to predict malocclusions in permanent dentition and sometimes, to identify an individual. Further studies with larger sample size are required to provide an insight into its significant correlations.

Dermatoglyphics: A Noninvasive Diagnostic Tool in Predicting Class III Skeletal Malocclusion in Children

Background

Dermatoglyphics is a scientific study that deals with the epidermal ridges and their configurations on certain body parts such as fingers, palms, and soles. In humans, during the intrauterine life (IUL) the primary palate, lip, and dermal ridges are formed during the same period, the genetic code engineered in the genome normal or abnormal is mirrored on these developing structures. Thus making dermatoglyphic a preceding tool in dental diagnosis.

Aims and objectives

The study aimed at evaluating dermatoglyphics as a tool in diagnosing malocclusion by comparing qualitative and quantitative dermal patterns in class I and class III skeletal malocclusion.

Materials and methods

Sixty subjects fulfilling inclusion-criteria were segregated into two groups, group I (class I skeletal malocclusion) and group II (class III skeletal malocclusion) with 30 subjects in each group. Dermatoglyphic patterns were recorded using ink method following rolling impression technique on recording sheets. The dermatoglyphic data were assessed for different finger ridge patterns, total finger ridge count, a–b ridge count, and atd angle.

Results

The data were analyzed using Chi-square and paired t tests. In skeletal class III malocclusion, there was an increase in loop count and a decrease in the count of whorls and arches as compared to class I malocclusion (p = 0.037). However, in relation to total finger ridge count, a–b ridge count, and atd angle, there was no statistically significant difference found between the groups.

Conclusion

The end of the study derived that the fingerprint patterns are valuable and ineradicable markers of malocclusion. Thus, the dermatoglyphics can be utilized as a screening tool for early prediction of skeletal class III malocclusion at a younger age-group. Further studies are suggested with the inclusion of other parameters using the inkless biometric method in different populations.

How to cite this article

Belludi AC, Sridhara A, Kumar NC, et al. Dermatoglyphics: A Noninvasive Diagnostic Tool in Predicting Class III Skeletal Malocclusion in Children. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2021;14(1):63–69.

Correlation of dental caries and dermatoglyphic patterns: A study in pediatric population

Introduction:

Dental caries is the most prevalent chronic disease among children worldwide irrespective of the advancements in oral healthcare. The basis of considering dermatoglyphic patterns as marker for dental caries is that the epithelium of finger buds and enamel are both ectodermal in origin and develop during the same period of intrauterine life.

Aim and Objective:

To record and evaluate the dermatoglyphic patterns, its correlation with early childhood caries (ECC) and to predict its efficacy in assessing the caries risk.

Method:

The study was carried out on 100 school going children within the age group of 36–71 months. Study population was divided into two groups comprising of 50 individuals each on the basis of def score, experimental group (def ≥ 1) and control group (def score 0). Dermatoglyphic patterns of all ten palmar digits were recorded using Cummins and Midlo method and assessed using a magnifying glass (2×).

Results:

Statistically significant increase in number of whorls was found in ECC group, whereas higher number of loops was seen in control group. In ECC group, value of both, the mean axial t triradius angle and mean total ridge count was low as compared to the caries-free group.

Conclusion:

There is definite variation in dermatoglyphics between the ECC and caries-free group, indicating that dermatoglyphic patterns can be used as a non-invasive predictive tool for children with ECC.

Individuals with nonsyndromic orofacial clefts have increased asymmetry of fingerprint patterns

Dermatoglyphic patterns on the fingers often differ in syndromes and other conditions with a developmental component, compared to the general population. Previous literature on the relationship between orofacial clefts–the most common craniofacial birth defect in humans–and dermatoglyphics is inconsistent, with some studies reporting altered pattern frequencies and/or increased asymmetry and others failing to find differences. To investigate dermatoglyphics in orofacial clefting, we obtained dermatoglyphic patterns in a large multiethnic cohort of orofacial cleft cases (N = 367), their unaffected family members (N = 836), and controls (N = 299). We categorized fingerprint pattern types from males and females who participated at five sites of the Pittsburgh Orofacial Cleft study (Hungary, United States of America (Pennsylvania, Texas), Spain, and Argentina). We also calculated a pattern dissimilarity score for each individual as a measure of left-right asymmetry. We tested for group differences in the number of arches, ulnar and radial loops, and whorls on each individual’s hands, and in the pattern dissimilarity scores using ANOVA. After taking sex and site differences into account, we did not find any significant pattern count differences between cleft and non-cleft individuals. Notably, we did observe increased pattern dissimilarity in individuals with clefts, compared to both their unaffected relatives and controls. Increased dermatoglyphic pattern dissimilarity in individuals with nonsyndromic orofacial clefts may reflect a generalized developmental instability.

Correlation between Dermatoglyphics, Dental Caries and Salivary pH: An Invivo Study

Background

Dermatoglyphic patterns that are often utilized in judicial and legal investigations are valuable in diagnosis of many diseases related to genetic disorders. Caries, being infectious in origin, might be related to genetics as well. Hence, these patterns are of significance in predicting caries development.

Materials and Methods

DMFT (decayed, missing, filled teeth) score of 300 female subjects within the age group 0f 18–25 years were recorded and accordingly divided into 3 groups of 100 each; group 1 (DMFT score=0), group 2 (DMFT score < 5) and group 3 (DMFT score ≥ 5). Dermatoglyphic patterns were recorded using Cummins and Midlo method. pH meter was used for recording salivary pH accurately. Fingerprint patterns and salivary pH recorded were correlated with DMFT scores of subject and control groups. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA and Chi-square tests (P < 0.05).

Results

The mean salivary pH was least in group 3. The predominant dermatoglyphic pattern observed in groups 1 and 2 was loop pattern whereas, in group 3, whorl pattern was predominant. The TFRC (total finger ridge count) was higher in group 3 compared to the other two groups.

Conclusion

Caries-free people showed inflated frequency of loops, whereas subjects with high decay score had additional share of whorls. The TFRC was higher in individuals with high DMFT score, and salivary pH was inversely proportional to the DMFT score.

Three-dimensional palatal anatomic characteristics' correlation with dermatoglyphic heterogeneity in Angle malocclusions

OBJECTIVES

To assess correlation of dermatoglyphic (DG) pattern with quantitative palatal anatomic parameters measured using three-dimensional (3D) scanning of dental casts and to explore the possibility of utilizing these to predict future occurrence of malocclusion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Pretreatment casts of 477 Saudi Arabian patients were divided into Class I, II, and III malocclusion groups. Fingerprints were recorded for all hand digits using a digital biometric device. Maxillary arch analysis was accomplished including intercanine, intermolar distance, palatal height, and palatal area. The results were statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean surface area of the palate was highest in Class II malocclusion. The DG pattern was not significantly associated with the type of malocclusion, except in the instance of the double loop characteristic (P = .05). There was a strong correlation, however, between DG characteristics like simple arch, loop, and double loop and palatal dimensions (intercanine, intermolar distance, and palatal height). Heterogeneity of DG pattern could be reliably used to predict palatal dimensions. Logistic regression revealed that only tented arch, symmetrical, spiral DG patterns and palatal area were significant but weak predictors of Angle malocclusion (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

A novel correlation of DG pattern with 3D palatal anatomic characteristics was assessed in different Angle malocclusion classes. Few of the DG characteristics and palatal dimensions showed significant correlations. However, only some of these were significant predictors of Angle malocclusion.

Dermatoglyphic Analysis in Parents with Cleft Children: A Comparative Study

Background and Objective:

There were studies in the literature which showed the altered dermatoglyphics in the cleft children. But it would be beneficial if probable expression can be proved in prior generations, so that genetic counseling and other preventive measures can be undertaken. The aim of the study is to determine variations in dermatoglyphics of prior generations which would serve as bench markers to predict the occurrence of cleft in off springs.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 400 parents aged between 25-45 years were selected and divided into two groups - Group A consisted of parents with cleft children and Group B comprised of parents with at least 2 healthy children who met the inclusion criteria. Dermatoglyphic prints were collected by ink method and evaluated for pattern types, total ridge count and palm prints were evaluated for a-b ridge count, atd angle and asymmetry.

Results:

Significant difference was observed between Group A and B with reference to pattern types; TRC and a-b ridge count and atd angle. Absence of t point was variably noticed in the mothers of affected children.

Conclusion:

Dermatoglyphics can be used as tool to study the developmental instability of cleft anomalies and provides data to assess the genetic etiology of clefting.

Dermatoglyphic findings in dental caries and their correlation with salivary levels of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus in school-going children in and around Moradabad

Introduction:

Dental caries is the disease of the calcified tissues of the teeth resulting from the action of microorganisms on carbohydrates characterized by a decalcification of inorganic portion of the tooth and accomplished or followed by disintegration of organic portion. Genetic susceptibility to dental caries is dependent on certain factors, which, if evaluated, can help in estimating disease situation prematurely. Dermatoglyphics are the genetically determined dermal ridge configurations on the digits, palms and soles, influenced by environmental forces that are operating before birth. Hence, the study was undertaken to establish a possible link between dental caries and dermatoglyphics and to determine whether specific dermatoglyphic patterns exist which help in predicting the occurrence of dental caries.

Subjects and Methods:

The dermatoglyphics of 50 caries free (CF) and 50 individuals with dental caries (WDC) were taken and compared with the microbial levels of Streptococcus mutans and lactobacilli, and results were evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively.

Statistical Analysis:

Analysis was done using P value, Chi-square test and Student's t-test.

Results and Conclusion:

(1) Whorl pattern was more common in individuals WDC (P < 0.0001) as compared to the CF individuals who exhibited more loop pattern (P = 0.002). (2) Whorl pattern had significant association with the microbial counts of S. mutans (P = 0.383) and Lactobacillus (P = 0.015) with no such statistically significant correlation with loop pattern in the disease group. (3) ≤6 loops was a good predictor of caries. ≥4 whorls was a moderate predictor of caries.

Comparison of Dermatoglyphic Pattern among Cleft and Noncleft Children: A Cross-sectional Study

Background

Oral clefts are among the common congenital birth defects with a broad phenotypic gamut. Since the epidermal ridges of the fingers and palms as well as the facial structures like lip, alveolus, and palate are formed from the same embryonic tissues during the same embryonic period, the genetic and environmental factors responsible for causing cleft lip and palate might also affect dermatoglyphic patterns.

Aim

Thus, study was undertaken to compare the dermato-glyphic pattern of children with orofacial clefts and normal children and to determine the correlation of dermatoglyphics with orofacial clefts.

Materials and methods

Total study sample consisted of 120 children in the age group of 3 to 16 years being divided into study and control groups. Dermatoglyphic data obtained from both control and study groups were then subjected to statistical analysis.

Results

Statistically no significant difference was found in the dermatoglyphic pattern and atd angle for both the groups.

Conclusion

It was observed that dermatoglyphics in orofacial clefts may not be distinctive. Further, large-scale studies are recommended to confirm the same.

How to cite this article

Mayall SS, Chaudhary S, Kaur H, Manuja N, Ravishankar T, Sinha AA. Comparison of Derma-toglyphic Pattern among Cleft and Noncleft Children: A Cross-sectional Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2017;10(3):245-249.

An Assessment of Correlation between Dermatoglyphic Patterns and Sagittal Skeletal Discrepancies

INTRODUCTION

Investigators over years have been fascinated by dermatoglyphic patterns which has led to the development of dermatoglyphics as a science with numerous applications in various fields other than being the best and most widely used method for personal identification.

AIM

To assess the correlation between dermatoglyphic patterns and sagittal skeletal discrepancies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 180 patients, aged 18-40 years, were selected from those who attended the outpatient clinic of the Deparment of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Mar Baselios Dental College, Kothamangalam, Kerala, India. The fingerprints of both hands were taken by ink and stamp method after proper hand washing. The patterns of arches, loops and whorls in fingerprints were assessed. The total ridge count was also evaluated. Data was also sent to the fingerprint experts for expert evaluation. The sagittal jaw relation was determined from the patient's lateral cephalogram. The collected data was then statistically analyzed using Chi-square tests, ANOVA and Post-hoc tests and a Multinomial regression prediction was also done.

RESULTS

A significant association was observed between the dermatoglyphic pattern exhibited by eight fingers and the sagittal skeletal discrepancies (p<0.05). An increased distribution of whorl pattern was observed in the skeletal Class II with maxillary excess group and skeletal Class II with mandibular deficiency group while an increased distribution of loop pattern was seen in the skeletal Class III with mandibular excess group and skeletal Class III with maxillary deficiency group. Higher mean of total ridge count was also seen in the groups of skeletal Class II with maxillary excess and skeletal Class II with mandibular deficiency. Multinomial regression predicting skeletal pattern with respect to the fingerprint pattern showed that the left thumb impression fits the best model for predicting the skeletal pattern.

CONCLUSION

There was a significant association between dermatoglyphic patterns and sagittal skeletal discrepancies. Dermatoglyphics could serve as a cost effective screening tool of these craniofacial problems.

Can Dermatoglyphics Be Used as a Marker for Predicting Future Malocclusions?

Introduction

Dermal ridges and craniofacial structures form from the same embryonic tissues during the same embryonic period. Thus, this might indicate a possible association between dermatoglyphics and facial skeletal disorders, such as malocclusions. Early diagnosis of skeletal malocclusions sometimes can prevent future surgical procedures. The aim of this study was to compare the dermatoglyphic characteristics of different malocclusions.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 323 patients who were referred to Orthodontic Department of Mashhad Dental School were recruited. The participants were classified into three groups according to Angle’s classification, i.e., Skeletal Class 1 (n = 163), Skeletal Class 2 (n = 111), and Skeletal Class 3 (n = 49). For all participants, we recorded the total ridge counts of each finger (TRC), atd angles, a–b ridge counts, and types of fingerprint patterns. Right- and left-hand asymmetry scores were calculated. The chi-squared test was used to compare the dissimilarity of the types of patterns for each finger. Asymmetry of other parameters was analyzed statistically using the ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis tests. P-values greater than 0.05 were considered to be significant.

Results

A significant difference was determined between Class I and Class III patients in terms of left a–b ridge count (p=0.049). Loop was the most frequent pattern in the three groups, whereas the arch pattern occurred with the lowest frequency. No significant difference was found in the other parameters that were studied.

Conclusion

Although there were some slight differences in dermatoglyphic peculiarities of different skeletal malocclusions, most of the palm and fingerprint characteristics failed to indicate any significant differences.

The Mystery of Handprints: Assesment and Correlation of Dermatoglyphics with Early Childhood Caries A Case-Control Study

BACKGROUND

It has been acknowledged that genetics play a significant role in determination of dermatoglyphic patterns. Since caries is a multifactorial disease with the influence of genetic pattern, this study was undertaken to assess dermatoglyphic patterns and correlate them with early childhood caries.

AIM

The aim of the study was to determine the association and correlation of dermatoglyphic patterns with early childhood caries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study sample consisted of 100 children aged between 3 and 6 years, divided into two groups of 50 children each. The deft score was evaluated to select the experimental group and control group. Finger and palm prints were recorded using the ink method described by Cummins and Midlo. The handprints obtained were checked for their clarity with a magnifying glass (×2) and coded. The presence of core and the triradii of the dermatoglyphic pattern were checked thoroughly to include the handprint in the study. A total of 1000 digital prints and 200 palmar prints were obtained.

RESULTS

The presence of whorls in the index finger of the right hand predicts significantly lower risk of caries in children (male and female; combined). Presence of whorls in the ring finger of the right hand predicts significantly lower risk of caries in female children. Statistically no correlation between atd angle and early childhood caries was obtained from the present data.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained from the present study creates a notion on the validity of the results of the previous studies and point them to be chance findings. Due to increasing acceptability of dermatoglyphics as a diagnostic tool for congenital diseases, further large scale extensive research should be undertaken to evaluate the role of the same in children with Early Childhood Caries (ECC).

Dermatoglyphic patterns and salivary pH in subjects with and without dental caries: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Dermatoglyphic patterns, which are regularly used in judicial and legal investigations, can be valuable in the diagnosis of many diseases associated with genetic disorders. Dental caries although of infectious origin, may have a genetic predisposition. Hence, we evaluated the correlation between dental caries and dermatoglyphic patterns among subjects with and without dental caries and evaluated its association with environmental factors such as salivary pH.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Totally, 76 female students within the age group of 18-23 years were clinically examined, and their decayed, missing, filled teeth (DMFT) score and oral hygiene index-simplified were recorded. Based on their DMFT score, they were divided into following three groups; group I (n = 16, DMFT score = 0), group II (n = 30, DMFT score <5), and group III (n = 30, DMFT score ≥5). Their fingerprint patterns and salivary pH were recorded and analyzed using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

Dermatoglyphic pattern distribution in caries-free group showed more ulnar loops than high caries group (group III) while high caries group showed more whorl patterns. Presence of whorl with double loop, whorl within a loop was associated with high DMFT score. The total finger ridge count was lower in caries group. The mean salivary pH was higher in caries-free group than high caries group. Thus, we conclude that dermatoglyphic patterns may be potential diagnostic tool for detecting patients prone to develop dental caries.

Palm and finger print characteristics in nonfamilial cleft lip and palate patients and their parents

The aim of this study was to investigate if Iranian individuals with nonfamilial cleft lip and palate (CLP) and their unaffected parents display more dermatoglyphic asymmetry than the normal population.The study group included 55 patients with nonfamilial CLP and their unaffected parents (38 fathers and 47 mothers). The control group included 60 healthy children and their parents (37 fathers and 50 mothers). Total ridge counts of each finger (TRC), atd angles, a-b ridge counts, and finger print pattern types of all participants were recorded. Asymmetry between the right and left hands of each individual was determined. Dissimilarity between pattern types on homologous fingers was compared using chi-square test. Asymmetry of other parameters was statistically analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test.There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of their asymmetry of atd angle, a-b ridge count, and pattern dissimilarity score. However, significant differences in mean TRC between CLP patients and control children were found for the right ring digit (P = 0.023), right little digit (P = 0.032), and left index digit (P = 0.005). Also, there were significant differences among CLP patients and control children (P = 0.022) as well as unaffected fathers of CLP patients and their control group (P = 0.020) in terms of type of finger print pattern.No enhanced fluctuating asymmetry was found in most of the dermatoglyphic traits in the population studied, which indicated a low degree of developmental instability of the sporadic cases of cleft deformity.

A comparative evaluation of dermatoglyphics in different classes of malocclusion

Aim

To study associations of dermatoglyphic features with malocclusion in Indian children.

Materials and methods

A total of 237 children aged 12–16 years, who attended our outpatient clinic in a government medical college, were selected. Finger and palm prints were collected, and fingertip pattern frequencies, total ridge counts (TRCs), and atd angles (formed by the triradii below the first and last digits and that in the hypothenar region of the palm) were calculated. These parameters were analyzed with their Angle’s class of malocclusion using appropriate statistical tests. Dermatoglyphic parameters were examined and asymmetry analysis was conducted in subjects with different occlusion patterns.

Results

Although no fingerprint pattern was found to be specific for a particular class of occlusion, increased tendencies toward high frequencies of whorls in subjects with class II malocclusion and plain arches in those with class III malocclusion were observed. Significant differences in atd angle and TRC were observed among malocclusion types (p = 0.0001). Asymmetry scores did not differ significantly.

Conclusion

Dermatoglyphic analysis can be used as an indicator of malocclusion at an early age, thereby aiding the development of treatments aiming to establish favorable occlusion. Inheritance and twin studies, as well as those conducted in different ethnic groups, are required to examine these relationships further.

Dermatoglyphics and karyotype analysis in primary amenorrhoea

BACKGROUND

Dermatoglyphics is the scientific study of the skin ridge patterns on the fingers, toes, palms of the hands and soles of feet. Dermatoglyphics is in use as a supportive diagnostic tool in genetic or chromosomal disorders as well as in clinical conditions with genetic etiologies. Primary amenorrhoea and Dermatoglyphics, both have the suspected multifactorial (genetic and environmental) aetiologies.

OBJECTIVE

In the present study the finger dermatoglyphic patterns were studied in primary amenorrhoea cases and age matched fertile control females and also attention was given to find out whether a specific dermatoglyphic trait exists in primary amenorrhoea cases and whether it was statistically significant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To study the role of dermatoglyphics in primary amenorrhoea, a study was conducted on 30 subjects with primary amenorrhoea (as cases) and compared it with equal number of age matched fertile females (as controls). We studied fingertip patterns in all the subjects enrolled. Simultaneously we have assessed the Karyotype of primary amenorrhoea cases.

RESULT AND CONCLUSION

Two subjects in experimental group have shown abnormal Karyotypes. The most significant finding in present study was increased total finger ridge count (TFRC) in primary amenorrhoea cases which was statistically significant. We also found higher frequency of loops and arches in primary amenorrhoea with abnormal karyotypes. This type of study may be quite useful as a supportive investigation, in stating the predisposition of an individual to primary amenorrhoea and referral of an individual for karyotyping.

Role of dermatoglyphics as an indicator of precancerous and cancerous lesions of the oral cavity

Background:

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is one name that causes panic and holds an undeserved high ranking as a killer. Another important condition which has become a major public health issue in South East Asia is oral submucous fibrosis (OSF). Not all the people using tobacco suffer from these diseases. Genetic predisposition might explain such an individual variability that can be predicted by using various cytogenetic markers. However, these studies are far more costly and complicated. So, dermatoglyphics may be of immense clinical significance to segregate those individuals who are at an increased risk for developing these diseases.

Aim:

The present study was conducted to analyze the palmar dermatoglyphics in SCC and OSF and find a dermatoglyphic marker, if any.

Study Design:

Cross sectional study.

Materials and Methods:

120 individuals were divided into four groups based upon their habits of tobacco/areca nut usage and presence of OSF/SCC. Dermatoglyphic patterns were recorded using standard ink method. Various patterns were analysed statistically in the four groups.

Results and Conclusion:

In SCC, there was an increase in frequency of arch and ulnar loop patterns on fingertips, decrease in frequency of simple whorl patterns on fingertips, decrease in frequency of palmar accessory triradii on right and left hands. Significant findings in OSF included an increase in frequency of arch and ulnar loop pattern, decrease in frequency of simple whorl patterns on fingertips, decrease in atd angle on right hand, decrease in frequency of palmar accessory triradii on right hand. The results revealed that the field of dermatoglyphics holds promising results for determining the genetic susceptibility of individuals to develop SCC and OSF.

Dermatoglyphic Features in Nonsyndromic Cleft Lip and/or Palate Patients and Their Parents in China

OBJECTIVE

To test the hypothesis that indicators and fluctuating asymmetry (FA) on fingers and palms in nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or palate (NSCL/P) and their parents were affected by developmental instability and to investigate a potential way for prenatal diagnosis of NSCL/P.

DESIGN

Case-control study.

SETTING

West China College of Stomatology and Chengdu Children's Hospital, Chengdu, China.

PARTICIPANTS

Three hundred sixty NSCL/P patients and their 720 unaffected parents were collected. Two hundred ninety normal children and their 580 parents were selected as the control.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Total ridge counts, atd angle, fingerprints pattern types, a-b ridge count, and true pattern (TP) on palm were determined. For each indicator, asymmetry between hands was defined. Pattern types and asymmetries were statistically compared among groups.

RESULT

Compared with the control, NSCL/P patients had significantly greater a-b ridge count for both hands (P < .001), decreased TP in the left thenar area (TA) as well as in the hypothenar area (HA) and interdigital third area (I3) (all P < .05), and increased FA in HA and I3 (both P < .05), while their parents had greater a-b ridge counts (P < .001). NSCL/P patients possessed more slowly developing patterns and higher levels of FA on their palms, followed by their parents and then the controls.

CONCLUSION

A-b ridge count could be a potential prenatal indicator in people without family history that are at increased risk of having a child with NSCL/P. The increased tendency for slower development of patterns and higher levels of FA indirectly support the possibility that the developmental sequence of ridges in NSCL/P is retarded. However, further work is still needed.

Dermatoglyphic evaluation in subjects and parents of cleft lip with and without cleft palate

Objectives : Dermatoglyphic patterns make good material for genetic studies because they remain stable throughout life. Given that the primary palate, lip, and dermal ridges develop during the same period of intrauterine life, the genetic message contained in the genome can be deciphered during this period and is reflected by dermatoglyphics. This study was undertaken to compare the dermatoglyphic patterns in subjects with clefts and controls and both their parents to study the genetic etiology. Methods : A total of 294 subjects (48 cleft subjects and 50 healthy controls with both their parents) were selected. Finger and palm prints of all were recorded using the ink method. Results :  Increased frequency of loops and arches and low mean total ridge count was observed in cleft subjects. Increased frequency of loops and arches with decreased frequency of whorls, mean total ridge count, and atd angle of right hand was found in parents of cleft group as compared with the parents of the controls. Conclusion : Dermatoglyphic patterns have considerable variances. They can be used to study genetic etiology and as an educational tool for genetic counseling.

Fetal pads as a clue to the diagnosis of Pitt-Hopkins syndrome

Pitt-Hopkins syndrome (PHS) is characterized by severe mental retardation, characteristic facial features including a wide mouth and intermittent overbreathing. It is due to abnormalities of the TCF4 gene at 18q21.1 and over 50 cases have now been reported in the literature. The clinical features overlap significantly with those of Angelman, Rett, and Mowat-Wilson syndromes. We have observed prominent fetal pads as a feature in several individuals with PHS and suggested that this is a useful clinical sign which helps to distinguish PHS from other conditions in the differential diagnosis and may guide genetic testing.

Dermatoglyphic analysis in parents with nonfamilial bilateral cleft lip and palate children

OBJECTIVES

To test the hypothesis that unaffected parents with nonsyndromic bilateral cleft lip and palate children possess greater levels of dermatoglyphic asymmetry than the normal population and to test for the difference in the distribution of pattern types.

DESIGN

Case-control study.

SETTING

Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.

PARTICIPANTS

Forty-five unaffected parents (45 men and 45 women) of children with nonfamilial bilateral cleft lip and palate anomaly were enlisted. A control group of 45 unaffected parents with at least two unaffected children and no prior family history of clefting were also simultaneously selected.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Palm prints and fingerprints were taken from each participant, and total ridge counts, atd angles, and pattern types were determined. For each of the three dermatoglyphic measures, asymmetry scores between right and left hands were defined, and then asymmetry scores of unaffected parents and pattern types were compared statistically with the controls, using Mann-Whitney and chi-square tests.

RESULTS

In contrast to total ridge count asymmetry, the asymmetry of at dangles in unaffected parents and the asymmetry of patterns (in unaffected mothers) were significantly higher in comparison with the controls. Furthermore,unaffected fathers had significantly more arches than the controls, but there were no significant differences in dermatoglyphic patterns of unaffected mothers and the controls.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggest that an increase in the asymmetry of at dangles and pattern types in parents of sporadically affected children may reflect more the genetic base of this congenital malformation.