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Dermatoglyphic patterns in children with chronic constipation

R A Drongowski1, A G Coran

  • 1Section of Pediatric Surgery, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.

Digestive Diseases and Sciences
|July 1, 1995
PubMed

Insights

Palmar dermatoglyphics, specifically arch patterns on fingers, were analyzed in children with constipation. The study found no significant correlation, indicating palmar arches are not a reliable screening tool for childhood constipation.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatoglyphics
  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Medical Genetics

Background:

  • Dermatoglyphics, the study of palm and sole ridge patterns, is explored for potential diagnostic value in medical conditions.
  • Previous research suggests associations between dermatoglyphic patterns and congenital anomalies, including gastrointestinal issues like constipation.
  • Palmar dermatoglyphic patterns are investigated as potential biomarkers for various health conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the correlation between palmar dermatoglyphic patterns, specifically the presence of arches, and constipation in children.
  • To determine if palmar arch positivity can serve as a screening indicator for functional or organic constipation in pediatric patients.
  • To compare palmar dermatoglyphic patterns in children with constipation against a control group with inguinal hernia.

Main Methods:

  • Palmar dermatoglyphic patterns were recorded for 77 children diagnosed with constipation (39 functional, 38 organic).
  • A control group of 84 children with inguinal hernia was included for comparison.
  • Arch positivity was defined as the presence of at least one arch on any digit of either hand; statistical analysis (chi-square test) was performed.

Main Results:

  • No statistically significant correlation was found between palmar arch positivity and the presence of functional or organic constipation (P = 0.9211).
  • Similarly, no significant association was observed between palmar arch positivity and the control group condition, inguinal hernia.
  • The findings indicate a lack of predictive value for palmar arches in identifying constipation in children.

Conclusions:

  • The presence of palmar arches is not a reliable indicator for screening children with chronic constipation, particularly of organic origin.
  • Dermatoglyphic analysis, in this context, does not support its use as a diagnostic or screening tool for pediatric constipation.
  • Further research may be needed to explore other dermatoglyphic features or different pediatric conditions.

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