Background: Dermatoglyphics are the dermal ridge configuration on the digits, palms and soles. Diagnosis of many diseases which are genetically or non–genetically determined can now be aided by dermatoglyphic analysis as these patterns have polygenic inheritance. Oral potentially malignant disorders like leukoplakia, oral submucous fibrosis and lichen planus have genetic predisposition. Hence the present study was undertaken to determine whether specific dermatoglyphic patterns exist which help in predicting the occurrence of these diseases.

Methodology: Finger and palm prints were collected using ink method from 40 subjects that were divided into 4 groups as follows: oral leukoplakia (Group A {n=10}), oral submucous fibrosis (Group B {n=10}), oral lichen planus (Group C {n=10}) and controls (Group D {n=10}). Data were subjected to statistical evaluation.

Results: Loops and whorls type of finger prints were more frequent in subjects with OPMDs whereas the frequency of arches was found to be higher in controls and were statistically significant. However the distribution of hypothenar and thenar/I ₁ area pattern were statistically insignificant. Similarly there was no correlation between atd angles in all the four groups.

Conclusion: Dermatoglyphic patterns may have a role in identifying individuals either with or at risk for developing oral potentially malignant disorders.