Assessment and Correlation between Dermatoglyphic pattern and Sagittal Skeletal Discrepancies: Short Study

Abstract

Dermatoglyphics, the intricate ridges and patterns on fingertips, serve as unique identifiers and have been linked to skeletal malocclusion. The development of dentition and palate coincides with dermal patterning around the sixth or seventh week of uterine development. Environmental and hereditary factors influencing the palate, alveolus, and lip may also affect fingerprint patterns. This study aims to assess and correlate dermatoglyphic parameters with skeletal Class I and Class II malocclusion. A total of 62 patients from the Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics department were selected and divided into two groups of 31 each based on skeletal parameters (ANB angle and Witts) from cephalometric tracings. Fingerprints were recorded using the ink and stamp method and analyzed in forensic studies.Results indicated significant differences in dermatoglyphic patterns between groups. Specifically, the left index finger (F1) and left and right ring fingers (F4) exhibited dominant pattern variations, with p-values of 0.026, 0.026, and 0.035, respectively. Whorl patterns were predominant in Skeletal Class II, while loop patterns were prevalent in Class I, particularly in the left index and both ring fingers.In conclusion, dermatoglyphic parameters demonstrate a significant correlation with sagittal skeletal discrepancies and dental malocclusion, suggesting their potential as non-invasive diagnostic tools in orthodontics.