Dermatoglyphic configurations of proximal and middle phalanges in Spaniards: analysis of subtypes

In this paper the dermatoglyphic configurations of proximal and middle phalanges in Spaniards (112 males, 135 females) have been analyzed. The particularities of 12 types were studied in a previous paper (Pons 1985). The present one completes the study with the analysis of 29 subtypes. For each hand and sex the frequencies of subtypes on different digits are analyzed as well as the directional characteristics (radial/ulnar and distal/proximal). On proximal phalanges the digits I and II display a clear radial slant. On the contrary digits IV and V show an ulnar direction. On digit III is a bimanual asymmetry in both sexes, the right hand being slanted in a radial direction, the left hand in an ulnar. The majority of configurations are distal. There are no significant sexual differences. On middle phalanges, as usually, the variability of subtypes is greater than on proximal ones. Digit II slopes in the radial course. Digits III and IV show the bimanual asymmetry already described for the proximal phalange of digit III. Digit V displays a clear ulnar slant. In distal/proximal direction of subtypes there is a greater variability than on the proximal phalanges. No important sexual differences are observed.