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Dermatoglyphics in rheumatoid arthritis.
Roopa Ravindranath1, R Shubha, H V Nagesh
1Division of Human Genetics, Department of Anatomy St. John's Medical College, Bangalore. sjmcanat@vsnl.com
Indian Journal of Medical Sciences
|October 24, 2003
Summary
Dermatoglyphics, the study of fingerprints, reveals distinct patterns in rheumatoid arthritis patients. These unique finger and palm print variations suggest dermatoglyphics may aid in diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis.
Area of Science:
- Human Genetics
- Dermatoglyphics
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
- Genetic and environmental factors contribute to RA pathogenesis.
- Diagnostic markers for early RA detection are continuously sought.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate dermatoglyphic variations in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
- To explore the potential of dermatoglyphics as a diagnostic tool for RA.
- To compare dermatoglyphic patterns between RA patients and healthy controls.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative dermatoglyphic analysis including fingerprint patterns, interdigital patterns, hypothenar patterns, and palmar creases.
- Study included 26 female and 11 male RA patients.
- Statistical analysis using the Chi-square test for comparisons.
Main Results:
- Male RA patients showed increased arches and decreased loops/whorls, with a significant increase in partial Simian creases.
- Specific finger pattern alterations were observed in both male and female RA patients, including changes in arches, loops, and whorls on various fingers and interdigital areas.
- Significant differences in dermatoglyphic patterns were noted between RA patients and controls.
Conclusions:
- Dermatoglyphic patterns exhibit significant variations in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.
- These findings highlight the potential utility of dermatoglyphics as a non-invasive diagnostic aid for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Further research is warranted to validate dermatoglyphics as a clinical diagnostic tool for RA.