Sex identification from foramen magnum using computed tomography scanning in a sample of Egyptian population

Background

Foramen magnum (FM) attains an increasing interest regarding sex identification among different populations. Computed tomography (CT) is considered a reliable modality for FM examination for forensic purposes.

Aim of the study

The current study is aiming to investigate FM measurements and shape as a forensic tool for sex identification in a sample of Egyptian population using CT imaging technology.

Subjects and Methods

The study included cranial CT images of 200 adult Egyptian individuals (100 males, 100 females) using 320-row multi-detector CT scanner. Sagittal and transverse diameters, index, circumference and area of FM were obtained. FM area was measured automatically and also calculated according to Radinsky's and Teixeria's formulae. FM morphology was also reported.

Results

All FM measurements except FM index were significantly higher in males compared to females. There was no statistical correlation between FM measurements and age. The best overall sex prediction was reported for FM circumference and area measured automatically (67% each), followed by FM area calculated by Radinsky's and Teixeria's formulae (65.5% and 65% respectively), then FM transverse and sagittal diameters (63.5% and 60% respectively). The prediction was raised to 69% when FM circumference, area measured automatically and transverse diameter were combined. Hexagonal and irregular shapes were the most commonly reported shapes in males and females respectively with no statistical difference regarding shape distribution between males and females.

Conclusions

FM measurements are valid sex discriminators in the present Egyptian sample.