Practical evaluation of some discriminant criteria for the dermatoglyphic diagnosis of twin zygosity
Rorive, C.; Buts, R.; Dodinval, P.
Journal de Genetique Humaine 30(2): 151-164
1982
ISSN/ISBN: 0021-7743 PMID: 6890094 Document Number: 188338
In practice identical twins are sometimes distinguished from non-identical on physical resemblance that is mainly subjective. Quantitative criteria combined into a simple formula would offer a quick, objective and practical tool. A discriminant score was elaborated based on numerical dermatoglyphic data either used alone or introduced into given mathematical expressions. Seven parameters or functions already utilized elsewhere were retained: total finger ridge count, a-d ridge count, generalized distance (.DELTA.2) and discriminant functions, S, T, L and Z. Other assays done when neglecting some of these parameters are easier to calculate but lead to less satisfactory discrimination between MZ and DZ [monozygotic and dizygotic, respectively] twins.