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Plantar and digital dermatoglyphics in Malawi
1Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre. Pigbigbi@yahoo.com
The Central African Journal of Medicine
|May 24, 2000
Summary
This study establishes the unique dermatoglyphic patterns of Black Malawian subjects, noting arches as predominant digital patterns and the absence of whorls. These findings highlight the potential of digital patterns for differentiating population groups.
Area of Science:
- Dermatoglyphics
- Anthropology
- Population Genetics
Background:
- Dermatoglyphic patterns, including fingerprint and sole print ridge configurations, are unique to individuals and populations.
- Understanding population-specific dermatoglyphic variations is crucial for anthropological and forensic studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish the normal plantar and digital dermatoglyphic patterns in Black Malawian subjects.
- To analyze the variability and classification of ridge patterns in this population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving randomly selected, able-bodied, indigenous Black Malawian subjects.
- Bilateral plantar and digital prints were recorded and classified.
- Dankmeijer's index (DI) and pattern intensity (PII) indices were calculated.
Main Results:
- Arches were the most common ridge pattern on digits; whorls were absent, a unique finding in Malawians.
- Loops were absent on the small digit but present on the big toe, with higher prevalence in males.
- Pattern intensity indices (PII and DI) showed significant differences between sexes and compared to Nigerian ethnic groups.
Conclusions:
- This study provides baseline dermatoglyphic data for Malawian subjects.
- Digital dermatoglyphic patterns demonstrate specificity valuable for differentiating between tribes and population groups.