Dermatoglyphic Pattern Configurations: A Review

Dermatoglyphics is the science and art of the study of surface markings and patterns of ridges on the skin of the fingers, palm, toes and soles. Finger, palm and sole impressions are said to be products of both environment and heredity, and they are unique, universal, inimitable and classifiable. They can be used for purposes of individualization, identification and comparison of persons. A relationship was reported between unusual dermatoglyphic features and several medical disorders with chromosomal abnormalities. Cummins and Midlo, and Penrose listed and defined dermatoglyphic features, outlined accepted methods of dermatoglyphic analysis, and provided a nomenclature that was intended to serve as a universal standard. Hence it is essential to have sufficient knowledge about normal dermatoglyphic configuration patterns for carrying out routine dermatoglyphic analysis and clinical applications in medical field.This article describes in details about the normal fingerand toe pattern configurations; palmar and plantar patterns and landmarks; footprint patterns;qualitative and quantitative analysis of dermatoglyphics on fingers, palms, toes and soles; topological classification of palmar and plantar dermatoglyphics; palmar and plantar flexion creases;white lines; and the various fingerprint classifications.Thus,apart from personal identification, dermatoglyphics serves as an excellent tool in screening population for several medical disorders, systemic conditions with genetic abnormalities and congenital anomalies.