Pattern of Lip Print among Undergraduate Students: A Forensic Anthropological Study

ABSTRACT

Background: Scientific study of lip prints as lines and fissures in form of wrinkles and grooves on labial mucosal surface of upper and lower lip which developed since sixth week of intra uterine life is called as Cheiloscopy. Materials and methods: The present study was done among total 121 2nd MBBS students after obtaining their informed written consent and ethical approval. Lip prints were collected, developed and analyzed with use of red/pink lipstick (Persona® non-metallic, non-glossy, non-persistent), white paper, cellophane tape, scanner, hand magnifying glass, scissors, Adobe Photoshop CS5 Software etc. Results: Out of 73 male students, most common lip pattern was II (branched) in 45.21%, followed by I (long vertical) in 27.4%, IA (short vertical) in 15.6%. Out of 48 female students, most common lip pattern was II (branched) in 44.64%, followed by I (vertical) in 25.62%, IA (short vertical) in 13.22%. Out of total 121 students, most common lip pattern was II (branched) in 44.64% and least common was V (mixed indefinite) in 1.65%. Conclusion: It was found that type II (branched) was most common type of lip print observed among students while type V (mixed indefinite) was the least common among students.