An impression left on a surface by the pattern of fine curved ridges on the skin of the fingertips. The ridges occur in 4 patterns: loops, arches, whorls, and compounds (combinations of the other 3). No 2 people, not even identical twins, have the same fingerprints. (See also genetic fingerprinting.)
The unique pattern of ?ne ridges in the outer horny layer of the skin at the front of the tip of each ?nger and thumb. The ridges are of three types: loops (70 per cent), whorls (25 per cent) and arches (5 per cent). Fingerprint patterns are used as a routine forensic test by police forces to identify individuals. Some patterns can indicate that the subject has an inherited disorder.
n. the distinctive pattern of minute ridges in the outer horny layer of the skin. Every individual has a unique pattern of loops (70%), whorls (25%), or arches (5%) (see illustration). Fingerprint patterns can show the presence of inherited disorders. See also dermatoglyphics.
This technique shows the relationships between individuals: for example, it can be used to prove maternity or paternity of a child. The procedure is also used in FORENSIC MEDICINE whereby any tissue left behind by a criminal at the scene of a crime can be compared genetically with the tissue of a suspect. DNA, the genetic material in living cells, can be extracted from blood, semen and other body tissues. The technique, pioneered in Britain in 1984, is now widely used.... genetic fingerprinting
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