Palmar and digital dermatogylyphic patterns of the three major ethnic groups in Nigeria.

Afr J Med Med Sci 37(4):333-7 (2008) PMID 19301710

Palmar and digital dermatoglyphic patterns of the three major ethnic groups in Nigeria were taken and their variability examined. Six hundred people were assessed, consisting of 200 Hausas (156 males, 44 females), 200 Ibos (98 males, 102 females), 200 Yorubas (112 males and 88 females). Clear prints were obtained by ink procedure and classified into patterns. It was found that ulnar loop was the most predominant among the ethnic groups. Comparison of digital and palmar ridge patterns among the ethnic groups revealed significant differences. The study established that digital and palmar ridge patterns vary significantly for the three ethnic groups. It was concluded from the study that dermatoglyphic traits of the digits and the palm may be used to differentiate the three ethnic groups.