STUDY OF ANOGENITAL INDEX AND 2:4 DIGIT RATIO IN HUMAN FETUSES: AN ANTHROPOMETRIC STUDY FROM NORTHERN INDIA
Journal Title: JOURNAL OF ANATOMICAL SCIENCES - Year 2017, Vol 25, Issue 2
Abstract
Introduction: Anogenital index (AGI) and 2:4 digit ratio (2D:4D) are sexually dimorphic and found to be markers of androgen and androgen receptor (AR) status. Studies in adults and children have shown both AGI and 2D:4D to be the predictor of external genitalia development, there abnormalities and adult reproductive disorder like infertility. However anthropometric study measuring the two indices in the fetuses, their association with crown rump length (CRL) and which marker can act as sexually dimorphic marker was not found. The aim of the present study was to measure anogenital distance (AGD), AGI and 2D:4D in apparently normal fetus, there correlation with CRL and to find out which one can act as better sexually dimorphic marker in fetuses. Material & Methods: AGI was measured in 72 fetuses ranging from 6 cm to 37 cm of CRL. AGI (mm/kg) was calculated by dividing AGD with weight of fetus. The length of second and fourth digit was measured by fingers in full extension of right and left hand and ratio was obtained. The difference if any between the male and female AGD, AGI, 2D:4D ratio of left and right hand were observed. The Pearson correlation and p value of AGI and 2D:4D with CRL were calculated to prove statistical association. Results: The mean AGI in fetuses was 22. AGI was more in male fetuses (28) in comparison to female fetuses (15). The ratio of mean male to female AGI was 1.86. The AGI showed linear decrease with increase in CRL in both male and female fetuses. The mean 2D:4D ratios in male and female fetuses were 0.92 and 0.93 for left hand respectively. The mean 2D:4D ratios in male and female fetuses were 0.92 and 0.98 for right hand respectively. The male to female ratio of 2D:4D for left hand and right hand was 0.99 and 0.94 respectively. The Pearson correlation and p value showed significant correlation between AGD and CRL in both male and female fetuses while only in female fetuses the 2D:4D ratio of both hand showed significant correlation. Conclusion: Androgens exposure early in fetal life determines genital development, various congenital anomalies and reproductive disorders. Indirect markers showing sexual dimorphism are essential to observe effect of androgen. This anthropometric study found that AGD and AGI showed statistically significant association with CRL and can act as reliable marker of sexual dimorphism, while 2D:4D ratio cannot be used as sexually dimorphic marker in fetuses.
Authors and Affiliations
Anamika Jaiswal
Keywords
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