Dermatoclyphic Patterns in Angiographically Proven Coronary Artery Disease

Abstract

Dermatoglyphics is the scientific study of epidermal ridges and their configurations on the palmar region of hand and fingers and plantar region of foot and toes. Against the genetic background of dermatoglyphic patterns and coronary artery disease, the study was undertaken to determine the correlation between them. The present study includes 150 cases of angiographically proven coronary artery disease (CAD) and 150 cases of healthy normal individuals. The palmar prints of both hands were taken on white paper by Ink method as described by Cummins and Midlo. It is noted that there is significant decrease in loops with corresponding increase in whorls in males, (M+F) combined series and left hand of CAD patients. The true palmar pattern is significantly decreased in thenar area in females; third interdigital area in (M+F) combined series and right hand; and fourth interdigital area in left hand of CAD patients. There is significant increase in ‘4’ palmar triradii in males, (M+F) combined series and right hand; and ‘5’ palmar triradii in females with significant decrease in ‘6’ palmar triradii in both sexes and both hands of CAD patients. The mean value of atd angle is significantly increased in males, (M+F) combined series and left hand of CAD patients as compared to the controls. There is no significant correlation in ab ridge count and CAD.