3D CT based age estimation from the pubic symphyseal surface in an Indian population using the Chen et al. method

Area of Science:

• Forensic Anthropology
• Radiology
• Bioarchaeology

Background:

• The pubic symphyseal surface is a reliable indicator for age estimation, showing degenerative changes from the third decade onwards.
• Traditional methods rely on skeletal remains, but limited contemporary repositories and resource-intensive bone preparation hinder studies.
• Advancements in medical imaging, particularly computed tomography (CT), allow non-invasive visualization of the pubic symphysis in living individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate age using CT images of the pubic symphysis by applying Chen et al.'s scoring method for morphological changes.
• To develop regression models for age estimation based on these morphological changes in a living population.

Main Methods:

• Utilized CT images from 263 participants (154 males, 109 females) undergoing diagnostic procedures, with ethical approval and consent.
• Assessed nine morphological indicators of the pubic symphysis based on criteria established by Chen et al.
• Developed linear and multiple regression models to correlate morphological scores with chronological age.

Main Results:

• The Chen et al. scoring method proved effective for age estimation from 3D CT images of the pubic symphysis.
• Developed regression models demonstrated the feasibility of age estimation in a living population.
• The derived models show potential applicability to individuals from the Indian subcontinent.

Conclusions:

• CT-based assessment of pubic symphysis morphology is a viable method for accurate age estimation in living individuals.
• The study validates and adapts Chen et al.'s scoring system for use with 3D CT data.
• The developed models offer a valuable tool for forensic age estimation, particularly for populations in the Indian subcontinent.