Evaluation of foramen magnum in sex determination from human crania by using discriminant function analysis

Abstract

Background: Many studies have been conducted on different populations on sexual dimorphism with respect to the cranial base. The present research was undertaken to study the accuracy and reliability of the foramen magnum in sex determination by using discriminant function analysis. Methods: 140 adult skulls (70 of either sex) were included in the study. Length, breadth index and area of foramen magnum were subjected to discriminant function analysis. Results: The accuracy of sex classification was up to 75.7% using a single variable. The least value was obtained from the index of the foramen magnum i.e. 57.9%. Three discriminant function equations were calculated based on these measurements. In stepwise analysis, breadth of foramen magnum was found to be more discriminating variable providing an accuracy of 75.7%. Conclusion: It can be concluded from the results that the measurements of foramen magnum of cranium provides valuable results and suitable for sex determination when other methods are inconclusive.