Background: Common forensic identification methods are dental evidence, fingerprint, and DNA. Although DNA is the most accurate method of them all, it remains unpopular due to its high cost and inaccessibility in natural disasters causing many casualties. Consequently, an alternative method is needed. Palatal rugae is a unique, stable, and resistant morphological landmark that has the potential to be an alternative method of forensic identification.

Objective: To examine the similarity of palatal rugae in the Minangkabau ethnic family relationship.

Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional study of 27 families consisting of father, mother, son, and daughter. The sample was taken randomly. Palatal rugae was extracted from alginate printing and yielded a study model for analysis. Fingerprints were printed onto white papers after they were all dyed blue. IBM SPSS 17 was used for statistical analysis with multiple regression tests.

Results: The results showed similarity of palatal rugae based on family relationship. Circular rugae of the son had similarities with that of the father (p<0.05), while that of the daughter was derived from the mother. Wavy rugae was derived from both parents (p<0.05). The right index fingers of both the son and the daughter were similar with that of their mother, whereas their left middle fingers were derived from their father (p<0.05).

Conclusion: The similarities of palatal rugae and fingerprints are influenced by genetic factors. Palatal rugae and fingerprints are useful identification methods in forensic science.

Keywords: Palatal rugae, Minangkabau family lineage, Fingerprints, Forensic identification

Received 4 Feb 2019 | Revised 15 May 2019 | Accepted 22 May 2019