Role of Digital and Palmar Dermatoglyphics in Early Detection of Oral Leukoplakia, Oral Submucous Fibrosis and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Patients

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Unusual dermatoglyphics may indicate genetic or chromosomal aberrations consistent with numerous diseases. The aim of the present study was to relate dermatoglyphic patterns in oral leucoplakia, oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients. Aim: The aim of the present study was to analyse the qualitative and quantitative variations in digital and palmar dermatoglyphics amongst the patients diagnosed with oral leucoplakia, OSMF and OSCC. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study comprising 225 patients, of which 75 patients were diagnosed with oral leucoplakia and OSMF, 75 patients were diagnosed with OSCC whereas 75 high-risk individuals with habits but without active lesions, was carried out. Finger and palmar prints were collected and analysed qualitatively and quantitatively. Results: In oral leucoplakia, OSMF and OSCC patients, loops were found to be the predominant finger ridge patterns whereas whorls were predominant in the control group. Conclusion: The study concluded that dermatoglyphics might serve as a potential tool in the early detection of the various oral pre-malignant and malignant lesions.