Palatal Rugae: A Key Adjunct in Forensic Investigation

Abstract

Palatal rugae are transversely running crests, which are exclusively formed by the mucosa of the hard palate, except where an ossified base can be distinguished. Palatal rugae are defined as anatomical folds or wrinkles (usually used in the plural sense); the irregular fibrous connective tissue located on the anterior third of the palate. They are permanent and unique to each person, and clinicians and scientists can use them to establish identity through discrimination (via casts, tracings or digitised rugae pattern). When traffic accidents, acts of terrorism or mass disasters occur, in which it is difficult to identify a person according to fingerprints or dental records, palatine rugae may be used as an alternative method of identification. The aim of this review article is to highlight the salient features of palatal rugae along with providing an update that establishes it as a key adjunct in forensic identification.