Age estimation using carpals: study of a Slovenian sample to test Cameriere's method

Area of Science:

• Forensic Anthropology
• Radiology
• Pediatric Endocrinology

Background:

• Carpal bone analysis is a recognized method for age estimation.
• Previous research by Cameriere et al. explored the ratio of bone area (Bo) to carpal area (Ca) for age assessment.
• The need for validated age estimation methods in pediatric populations remains critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the best regression model for age estimation in Slovenian children and adolescents.
• To evaluate the applicability of existing age estimation formulas to a Slovenian sample.
• To develop a robust regression model incorporating gender and the Bo/Ca ratio.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 158 Slovenian children and adolescents (ages 6-16) was analyzed.
• Regression analysis was performed to determine the relationship between age and skeletal measurements.
• The ratio of total area of carpal bones and epiphyses of the ulna and radius (Bo) to carpals (Ca) was calculated.

Main Results:

• A regression model (age=-3.411+0.942 g+20.927(Bo/Ca)) explained 91.6% of age variance with a low standard error of estimate (0.658 years).
• No significant differences were found between a Slovenian-specific equation and Cameriere et al.'s model.
• A common regression model for Italian and Slovenian samples (age=-2.907+0.408 g+20.757(Bo/Ca)) explained 86% of variance.

Conclusions:

• The Bo/Ca ratio is a reliable indicator for age estimation in children and adolescents.
• A unified regression model is suitable for both Italian and Slovenian pediatric populations.
• The findings support the use of this method in forensic and clinical contexts for age determination.