Abstract:
Background
Dermatoglyphics is a branch of science which deals with the study of ridge
patterns on finger tips, palms, soles and toes. Dermatoglyphic traits are formed under
genetic control early in the development, but may be affected by environmental
factors during 1st trimester of pregnancy. They however do not change thereafter.
Thus maintaining stability and personal identification. Thus represent the genetic
makeup of an individual and therefore predisposition to certain diseases. Tuberculosis
is a major public health problem. Genetic factors play a role in the susceptibility of an
individual for tuberculosis. By analyzing various parameters of dermatoglyphics in
the palms and fingers, it is possible to certain extent to predict individual’s chance of
acquiring pulmonary tuberculosis.
Methods and Results
The finger and palm prints of hundred diagnosed patients of sputum positive
pulmonary tuberculosis in the age group between 20 to 60 years were compared with
hundred controls, of the same age group, among which 50 were males & 50 were
females. Screening questions were asked to exclude other genetic disorders. The
quantitative study includes total finger ridge count (TFRC), absolute finger ridge
count (AFRC), mean ‘atd’ angle.
The quantitative study includes finger print patterns (whorls, radial loops,
ulnar loops and arches) and palmar pattern (simian line and Sydney line).Statistical
analysis for quantitative analysis, the arithmetic mean and standard deviation will be
calculated, ‘Z’ test will applied. For qualitative analysis, the ‘Chi’ square test will
applied whenever necessary.
X
The following significant parameters have been found in the present study of
palmar dermatoglyphics in patients with sputum positive tuberculosis in the age group
between 20-60 years:
In both males and females:
1. Lower mean ‘atd’ angle in study group.
2. Higher Mean Absolute Finger Ridge Count (AFRC).
3. Higher Mean Total Finger Ridge Count (TFRC)
Conclusion
The significant dermatoglyphic parameters found in the study may be used to
predict individual’s chance of acquiring pulmonary tuberculosis.
