Genetic Correlations in the Distribution of Lip Patterns in Parents of Children with Cleft Lip and Palate

Introduction: Cheiloscopy, the study of lip prints, offers a novel approach in genetic research, particularly in understanding the inheritance of cleft lip and palate (CL/P). Lip prints, unique like fingerprints, are influenced by genetic factors and may provide critical insights into the hereditary components of CL/P. Materials and Methods: This study, conducted in the Dept. of Public Health Dentistry, SPDC, Sawangi, Wardha, India, included parents of children with confirmed CL/P. Using the cellophane method, lip prints were collected non-invasively. The patterns were analyzed according to Suzuki and Tsuchihashi's classification. Data analysis was performed using SPSS with chi-square and logistic regression methods, focusing on significance levels below 0.05. Results: The study revealed significant insights into the genetic correlations of CL/P. The average age of participants was 32.28 years, with a balanced gender distribution. The prevalence of cleft types showed both cleft lip and palate as most common. Analysis indicated Type II lip pattern as the most prevalent across genders and quadrants. Notably, gender-specific variations in lip patterns were observed. A significant prevalence of whorl patterns was noted, suggesting their potential as a genetic marker for CL/P, although no gender-based differences were statistically significant. Conclusion: The study underscores the potential of lip print analysis as a non-invasive tool for understanding CL/P genetics. The significant prevalence of certain lip patterns, especially Type II and whorl patterns, suggests their relevance as genetic markers, highlighting the need for further research in this promising field.