Sex determination from hand dimensions and index/ring finger length ratio in North Saudi population: Medico-legal view

Abstract

Sex determination using human commingled remains is one of the most important components in forensic identification. Getting a reliable and accurate method for sex determination through hand dimensions among Saudi population. A cross sectional study was carried out on 600 volunteers. Hand length, breadth and hand index, also index and ring finger ratio were estimated. The average hand length, breadth and index were found to be 1.3, 0.96 and 2.93 cm greater in males than females, respectively (p < 0.05), with no significant difference between right and left hand in the same sex. A cut-off point index of ⩽41.23 for the right hand and of ⩽41.30 for the left hand is suggestive of the female sex, while that of >41.23 for right hand and >41.30 for left hand is suggestive of male. The index and ring finger ratio is found to be higher in females than males. Index and ring finger ratio ⩽0.920 for the right hand and ⩽0.913 for the left hand suggestive of male while Index and ring finger ratio <0.920 for the right hand and <0.913 for the left hand suggestive of female. By using the anthropometric measurements of hand dimensions, sex can be estimated with a high accuracy. It is, therefore, an important tool to be included in forensic identification when a hand is detected at the scene in mass disasters and criminal situations.