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Digital dermal patterns in breast cancer
Proceedings of the National Science Council, Republic of China. Part B, Life Sciences
|April 1, 1987
Summary
This study found specific fingerprint patterns, like radial loops on the left hand, are associated with breast cancer risk in women. Different patterns were linked to premenopausal and postmenopausal breast cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Dermatoglyphics
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Dermatoglyphics, the study of skin patterns, offers insights into developmental variations.
- Previous research suggests potential links between fingerprint patterns and certain diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between breast cancer and specific digital dermal patterns and ridge counts.
- To explore differences in fingerprint patterns between breast cancer patients and controls.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of fingerprint data from 570 breast cancer cases and 570 matched controls in Hawaii.
- Comparison of digital dermal patterns (e.g., loops) and ridge counts between cases and controls.
Main Results:
- A significant excess of radial loops on the left hand was observed in breast cancer patients.
- Premenopausal women with breast cancer showed a higher frequency of ulnar loops on the left hand.
- Postmenopausal women with breast cancer exhibited an excess of radial loops on the left hand.
- No significant differences in total or absolute ridge counts were found.
Conclusions:
- Specific fingerprint patterns, particularly left-hand radial loops, are associated with breast cancer.
- The association between fingerprint patterns and breast cancer may differ based on menopausal status.
- Ridge counts do not appear to be a distinguishing factor for breast cancer in this population.