Sex Identification Using Fingerprint Patterns: A Study on an Egyptian Sample

Abstract

Background: Fingerprints provide positive identification because they are unique and permanent throughout life. Their easy availability and less sophisticated techniques make them a convenient tool for personal identification. Determination of sex is important in both forensic and anthropological identification because it narrows the search for identity by excluding half of the population. Materials and Methods: This study analyzed fingerprint patterns of 200 Egyptian volunteers (100 males and 100 females). Fingerprints of the ten fingers were collected by rolling the finger bulb on an ink-smeared plate and then placing it on a sheet of white paper. Fingerprints were classified according to Galton's classification (loop, whorl or arch). Results: The Fingerprint pattern distribution between both hands in males and females demonstrated that there were no statistically significant differences in all fingers except for the index finger in males as the right index finger showed significantly more whorl patterns and fewer loop patterns than the left, whereas arch patterns were more frequent on the left side. The loop pattern was observed more frequently in females while whorl was predominant in males in right hand, left hand and both hands. The distribution of fingerprint patterns between males and females showed no statistically significant differences in all fingers (P > 0.05), except for the right index finger, which showed a significant difference. Univariate logistic regression models were performed to predict female sex from loop pattern and male sex from whorl pattern of right index finger with an accuracy of 68.0% and 60.5% respectively. The models were a good fit for predicting sex, as indicated by a non-significant difference between predicted and observed sex. Conclusion: Fingerprint pattern distribution in the right index finger is effective tool for sex identification.