Association of Fingerprint Patterns, Palmar Crease Density, and Blood Groups with Sex Among Medical Students in Belagavi: A Cross-sectional Study

In forensic medicine and toxicology, fingerprints, palmprints, and blood group systems are widely used tools for personal identification. When friction ridge details are unclear or absent in palm prints, palmar flexion creases may serve as an alternative feature for identification. This study aimed to assess the association of sex with fingerprint patterns, palmar flexion crease density, and ABO and Rh blood groups among medical students. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 medical students aged 18–25 years. Fingerprint patterns, palmar crease density, and blood group data were analyzed to evaluate their relationship with sex. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the significance of observed associations. Loops were the most common primary fingerprint pattern, while composite patterns were the least frequent. No significant association was observed between sex and fingerprint patterns or blood groups. In contrast, a statistically significant difference was noted in palmar flexion crease density between males and females ( p < .001). The mean palmar crease density was higher in females (5.88 creases/cm²) compared to males (3.54 creases/cm²). This study demonstrates that while fingerprint patterns and blood group systems show no significant association with sex, palmar flexion crease density exhibits clear sexual dimorphism. These findings highlight the potential forensic value of palmar crease density as an adjunct tool for sex determination, particularly in situations where conventional ridge details are insufficient or unavailable. Because palmar crease features offer several practical advantages, this study indicates that crease density may serve as a helpful parameter for sex determination.