Estimation of stature by anthropometric examination of forearm and hand.

ABSTRACT

As the incidences of crime are going on increasing, the matter of identification of an individual is becoming prime importance now days. Estimation of stature forms important criteria for establishing individuality of the person and require special attention in cases when bodies are found in mutilated state and only fragment are discovered. The mutilation of dead body is done intentionally by criminals who wants to destroy all traces of identity and thus facilitates the disposal of the dead. In a country like India, animals and vultures may attack a dead body and mutilate in a very short time when exposed in open field. 200 young and healthy male medical students aged between 18 to 25 years having no disease or deformity were examined anthropometrically in respect to their height and length of right forearm and hand. The stature varied from 149.13 cm to 177.33 cm with mean value 164.97 cm and the standard deviation 5.52 cm. On the other hand mean length of the forearm and hand was found to be 45.47 cm and the multiplication factor is calculated as 3.899 cm.