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Childhood constipation is not associated with characteristic fingerprint patterns

C R Jackson1, B Anderson, B Jaffray

  • 1University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.

Archives of Disease in Childhood
|December 13, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Simple arch fingerprint patterns are not linked to severe childhood constipation or its genetic causes. This study found no association, suggesting fingerprint patterns do not help predict or manage this condition.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Dermatoglyphics
  • Genetics

Background:

  • A potential association between simple arch fingerprint patterns and severe childhood constipation has been proposed.
  • Such an association could offer predictive value for disease prognosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence of simple arch fingerprint patterns in children with severe constipation compared to controls.
  • To examine the occurrence of these patterns in first-degree relatives of both groups.

Main Methods:

  • Fingerprint patterns were analyzed by blinded assessors in 30 surgically treated constipated children and 30 appendicitis controls.
  • First-degree relatives of participants were also included.
  • Colonic transit times and clinical outcomes were assessed in constipated children.

Main Results:

  • Similar proportions of constipated children (13%) and controls (7%) exhibited simple arches.
  • Arch positivity was more frequent in relatives of arch-positive children (6/6) than arch-negative children (14/54).
  • Fingerprint patterns did not correlate with prolonged colonic transit times or the need for colectomy.

Conclusions:

  • Simple arch fingerprint patterns are not associated with severe childhood constipation.
  • These patterns do not aid in the management or prediction of severe constipation.
  • The findings do not support a genetic basis for severe constipation linked to fingerprint patterns.
Abstract

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