The frequency of fingerprint type in parents of children with Trisomy 21 in Japan

Abstract

Analysis of the frequency data of each fingerprint type (arch, ulnar loop, radial loop, and whorl) of the parents of children with Trisomy 21 (Fathers: 71; Mothers: 128) born between 1965 and 1970 obtained from the Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital was carried out. Japanese controls were taken from dermatoglyphics data in Japan. We conducted the Friedman test on each type of fingerprint between Japanese controls and parents of Trisomy 21 children. Results from a statistical analysis based on the above data showed significant differences, more arches (p<0.0001) and fewer whorls (p<0.05) in mothers of children with Trisomy 21. Among fathers of Trisomy 21 children, a significant difference was found in there being fewer whorls (p<0.05) and ulnar loops (p=0.06). Considering the mothers' fingerprints, we suspected that females with a higher frequency of arches and a lower frequency of whorls had a stronger possibility of bearing Trisomy 21 babies. On the other hand, in fathers of Trisomy 21 children, we considered that there would be a possibility of significant differences if cases in the sample were increased.