Comparative Evaluation of Ring Finger Dermatoglyphics and Atd Angle in Individuals with Intellectual Disability

Abstract

Background: Dermatoglyphics, the study of epidermal ridge patterns, reflects genetic and prenatal developmental influences. Since epidermal ridges and the nervous system develop simultaneously, dermatoglyphic variations may serve as valuable, non-invasive markers for early screening and identification of intellectual disability. Objective:The objective of the present study was to evaluate and compare dermatoglyphic patterns of ring finger and ATD angles in intellectually disabled individuals and healthy controls, and to identify characteristic dermatoglyphic variations that may aid in the early screening and understanding of neurodevelopmental abnormalities associated with intellectual disability. Methods: A cross-sectional case-control study was performed in August 2024 to December 2025 in the J.L.N. Medical College and Associated Hospital and evaluated dermatoglyphic patterns in 200 intellectually disabled individuals and 100 controls using standardized ink-print analysis of fingers and palms. Results: The study evaluated 200 intellectually disabled individuals and 100 healthy controls aged 8–45 years. Arch patterns on the left ring finger were significantly higher in cases (8%) than controls (2%) (p=0.034), while the right ring finger showed a similar trend (7% vs 2%). Mean ATD angles were significantly increased in cases (left: 52.84±8.96°, right: 51.76±9.14°) compared to controls (p<0.001), suggesting characteristic dermatoglyphic abnormalities in intellectual disability. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated significant dermatoglyphic variations in intellectually disabled individuals, particularly increased arch patterns and higher ATD angles. These findings support the association between abnormal epidermal ridge development and intellectual disability. Dermatoglyphic analysis may serve as a simple, economical, and non-invasive adjunctive tool for early screening and identification.