Abstract
Since forensic age estimation is not a valid medical indication, research on the use of nonionizing methods is increasing. Ultrasonography is a radiological approach that protects patients from radiation exposure and offers special convenience to them. In this study, ultrasonography was used for age estimation by investigating the degree of ossification of the distal radial epiphysis. Its applicability on the Turkish population was investigated. The left wrist of 688 (322 males, 366 females) patients between the ages of 9 and 25 years was prospectively evaluated by ultrasonography. The intra- and interobserver reliabilities in evaluating the distal radial epiphysis and Cohen’s kappa statistics show that the interobserver error was very low, and the kappa value was found to be 0.919. Stage 3 and 4 ossification of the distal radial epiphysis was first detected at age 14.3 and 15.3 years in males and 12.7 and 14.8 years in females, respectively. The data obtained may help determine legally critical age limits of 14 and 15. Although it does not seem useful for the age of 18, ultrasonography may be recommended in selected cases as a fast, inexpensive, frequently reproducible radiological method without concern about radiation and without a predictable health risk.
Highlights
Due to the increase in cross-border migration in recent years, the presence of individuals with unconfirmed birth date has increased in many countries, especially in Europe
Swiss Human Institute of Forensic Taphonomy, University Center of University Center of Legal Medicine, Lausanne-Geneva, Switzerland the age of 18 have different rights than adults within the scope of asylum in Europe [1,2,3,4], forensic age estimation may be required to assess the status of adolescents seeking asylum
The aim of this study was to ultrasonographically evaluate ossification of the distal radius epiphysis to show its utility in forensic age estimation in living individuals
Summary
Due to the increase in cross-border migration in recent years, the presence of individuals with unconfirmed birth date has increased in many countries, especially in Europe. To determine which of the criminal laws applicable to adults or children has to be applied, forensic age estimation is mandatory for individuals whose birth date has not been confirmed [3]. The important age limits in terms of determining criminal liability are 14, 18, and years in many countries [3, 4]. Another area where age estimation gains importance is in sports competitions
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