Application of modified reverse panoramic radiograph on lambdoid suture for age estimation

Area of Science:

• Forensic anthropology
• Human osteology
• Radiographic analysis

Background:

• Cranial suture closure is a known indicator of human aging.
• Forensic and archaeological studies use suture closure for age estimation.
• Lambdoid suture closure's utility in age assessment is underutilized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between age and lambdoid suture closure.
• To assess ectocranial closure of the lambdoid suture using modified reverse panoramic radiography (RPRg).

Main Methods:

• 85 subjects aged 25 and above were grouped by 10-year intervals.
• Lambdoid suture closure was assessed using the Frederic Rating Scale on modified RPRg.
• Spearman's correlation test was employed for statistical analysis.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant difference was found between age groups and suture closure.
• A correlation coefficient of 0.570 indicated a good correlation.
• P value <0.001 confirmed the statistical significance.

Conclusions:

• The lambdoid suture is an effective tool for age assessment in deceased individuals.
• Modified RPRg provides a practical method for evaluating ectocranial lambdoid suture closure.
• This method aids in determining age from skeletal remains.