Investigation of dermatoglyphic patterns for mandibular retrognathism or maxillary prognathism as a novel diagnostic approach for skeletal Class II malocclusion.

Abstract

Background: Dermatoglyphics, the study of fingerprint patterns, is derived from the ectoderm, the same embryological layer responsible for craniofacial development. Its potential as a non-invasive diagnostic tool has been explored in various medical and dental conditions, including skeletal Class II malocclusion.

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the correlation between dermatoglyphic patterns and cephalometric angles (SNA and SNB) in Class II skeletal malocclusion to establish a novel diagnostic approach.

Material and methods: A total of 100 participants (aged 18:35 years) diagnosed with skeletal Class II malocclusion were evaluated. The participants were divided into two groups: 50 with increased SNA (> 84°) and 50 with decreased SNB (< 78°). Dermatoglyphic patterns, including Whorls, Loops, Tented Loops, Central Pockets, and Arches, were analyzed for all 10 fingers using the ink-and-stamp method. Cephalometric measurements were conducted using standardized lateral cephalogram. Statistical analyses, including Chi-Square tests and correlation analysis, were performed to identify significant associations.

Results: Whorl patterns were most associated with increased SNA, while Plain Loops correlated significantly with decreased SNB. The middle finger (F3) and Index finger (F7) emerged as the most reliable indicators of skeletal discrepancies. Chi-Square analysis confirmed a statistically significant association between fingerprint patterns and cephalometric measurements (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Dermatoglyphic patterns, particularly Whorls and Loops, demonstrate strong correlations with SNA and SNB angles in skeletal Class II malocclusion. This study establishes dermatoglyphics as a non-invasive, reliable diagnostic tool for early detection and personalized treatment planning in orthodontics.