Sexing the human skull using the mastoid process.

Sex determination of human or human skeletal remains is considered an initial step in its identification. In cases of fragmented or mutilated body, it is difficult to identify the body. This skillful process is carried out by forensic and anatomy experts. In cases where intact skull is not found, mastoid play a vital role in sex determination as it is the most dimorphic bone of skull. The mastoid region, a fragmentary piece of skull is ideal for sex determination as it is resistant to damage due to its anatomical position at the base of skull and its toughness. The skull measurements vary significantly in different ethnic groups of the world and number of research/studies are too few for Indian population. In present study, 100 adult human skulls of Gujarat population were studied to determine accuracy of mastoid process in sex determination. A quantitative blind study of the dimensions of the sides of the mastoid triangle was carried out. Results show significant craniometric difference between male and female mastoid triangles.