Analysis of fingertip patterns in patients with oral leukoplakia: a dermatoglyphic study

Abstract

Introduction: Dermatoglyphics is focused on studying the fine-patterned dermal ridges on volar surfaces of soles, palms, and ridges. It has drawn attention in the field of dentistry. The diagnosis of many diseases that are genetically or nongenetically determined can now be aided by dermatoglyphic analysis, as these patterns have polygenic inheritance. Millions of people consume tobacco, but all of them do not suffer from potentially malignant disorders (PMDs) of the oral cavity. It seems likely that a genetic predisposition could be an underlying mechanism. Aim: The present study aims at determining the relationship between dermatoglyphics and oral leukoplakia (OL). Materials and Methods: Fingertip prints were studied on 30 subjects who were divided into three groups: Group 1 consisted of 10 patients with leukoplakia; Group 2 had 10 patients with habit without lesion; and Group 3 had 10 patients without any habit and any lesion as control. Fingertip prints were taken by the ink method. Results: It was observed that the loops pattern was predominant in patients with OL and in patients with habit but without lesion.