Determination of the legal age of majority in Spain and in the European Union. Current situation.

Abstract

Background: Migration brings numerous challenges, especially when undocumented minors arrive in large numbers. Age determination is essential in providing minors with legal protection while preventing abuse of systems designed for their welfare. Traditional methods, such as hand radiographs and orthopantomography, have faced criticism for their lack of precision and reliance on outdated standards. This study evaluates contemporary approaches for determining age, emphasizing the need for updated protocols.

Material and methods: The study examines the legal framework in Spain regarding age determination of undocumented migrants, emphasizing the phased process involving physical examinations, dental radiographs, and CT scans of the clavicle. The challenges of using traditional methods, including variations in bone maturation across ethnic groups, are addressed.

Results: Analysis revealed limitations in traditional methods such as the Greulich and Pyle atlas and orthopantomography. These methods tend to overestimate age in certain populations and lack applicability in diverse ethnic contexts. CT of the clavicle emerged as a more reliable tool for late adolescents, despite its higher radiation dose.

Discussion: The findings underscore the importance of adapting age estimation methods to diverse populations and leveraging advanced imaging technologies. Radiological techniques must be used judiciously to balance accuracy and ethical considerations. Updating protocols to include multidisciplinary approaches and integrating new technologies can significantly improve outcomes.

Conclusions: Modernizing age determination practices is crucial to align with contemporary needs and protect the rights of migrants. Establishing detailed and specific protocols tailored to diverse populations will ensure both scientific reliability and humanitarian principles in forensic and legal applications. Key words:Forensic Age Estimation,Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), Mandibular Condyle, Third Molar Apical Closure, Skeletal Maturity, Legal Age Determination, Cortical Bone Analysis, Ethnicity and Age Estimation.