Anthropometric study of ear prints in males of Haryana and Himachal region

Abstract

Background: The external ear is a highly intricate structure exhibiting considerable variability among individuals. Ear prints, two-dimensional representations of portions of the outer ear that has made contact with a specific surface, have garnered attention in recent years. Some researchers propose that characteristics of the external ear could serve as identifiers with a level of certainty akin to fingerprinting. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to measure ear height, ear breadth, and auricular index on ear prints and to compare these parameters between the populations of Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. Materials and Methods: The study involved 200 males aged 18–40 years and was conducted at the department of anatomy, MMIMSR, MMU, Mullana. Parameters measured on the ear prints included total ear height, total ear breadth, and the calculation of auricular index. Results: Statistically significant differences were observed in ear length and breadth between the two populations. Haryanvi males exhibited greater ear length and breadth compared to Himachali males. Furthermore, there was a significant difference in auricular indices, with Haryanvi males displaying higher values compared to Himachali males. Conclusion: Upon comparison of ear prints, it was noted that Haryanvi males typically possessed larger and broader ears, whereas Himachali males tended to have medium-sized ears.