A Study of Bilateral Asymmetry of Upper Extremities and its Effects on Stature Reconstruction amongst Nigerians

Abstract

The relevance of stature prediction from body segments to a forensic scientist cannot be overemphasized. But the presence of bilateral asymmetry between these limbs still poses a lot of challenges in ascertaining accurate values from estimates. A regression equation derived from the right side and applied to the left side may cause more harm than good in medico-legal investigations. The aim of this study is to predict stature from limb lengths and to investigate the effect of bilateral asymmetry on stature reconstruction. A total of 230 healthy Nigerians (100 males and 130 females) aged between 18 to 36 years were recruited for the measurement. Stature, left and right limb lengths were measured in centimeters in tandem with the standard anthropometric procedure. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 20 Chicago Inc. Results of this study showed sexual dimorphism and bilateral asymmetry between left and right limb lengths in both sexes at a significance level of p < 0.01. The present outcome may be found useful by Forensic anthropologist and anatomist in narrowing down human individuality using the regression models. Therefore, there is need for right appropriation of an equation to the correct side of the body otherwise it may lead to erroneous results.