Abstract

CHEILOSCOPY – AN AID FOR PERSONAL IDENTIFICATION

Dr. Tim Peter, Dr. Laxmikanth Chatra, Dr. Prashanth Shenai, Dr. Deepthi Anna Cherian, Dr. Tom Peter, Dr. Betsy Thomas

Abstract

Introduction: Cheiloscopy is a forensic investigation technique that deals with identification of humans based on lip traces. The aim of this study was to establish the uniqueness of lip groove pattern, which aids in personal identification. Materials and methods: Study group comprised of 500 individuals from Mangalore comprising of 250 males and 250 females of the age group 15-60 years. Materials used were digital camera in a photoshot stabilized tripod stand and cephalostat machine to stabilize the individual. Results and discussion: The frequency of lip groove lines in upper and lower lip according to Suzuki and Tsuchihashi classification was different among and within males and females. Hence each and every individual has a unique lip groove pattern. Conclusion: A lip groove pattern comprises of different permutations and combinations of lip groove lines in upper and lower lip in each and every individual. It was inferred that frequency of different types of lines according to Suzuki and Tsuchihashi classification in different regions of upper and lower lip were different in each and every individual. Hence, lip groove pattern is unique for an individual and can be considered as a personal identification tool.

Keywords: Cheiloscopy, lip traces, Tsuchihashi.