A Study on Evaluation of Various Tongue Patterns in North Indian Population and a Working Classification System for These Tongue Print Patterns

INTRODUCTION: Tongue is a vital internal organ enclosed within the oral cavity and is well protected from the external environment. The color, shape, and surface features are characteristic of every individual, and this serves as a tool for identification. The search for a new personal identification method secure has led to the use of the tongue print as a method of biometric verification.AIM AND OBJECTIVE: To analyze the shape, margins, texture of tongue prints and compare these between males and females. Also, formulate a working classification system for these tongue prints.MATERIAL AND METHODS: Subjects were asked to protrude tongue in relaxed position. After this tongue images were captured using Nikon digital camera to evaluate the shape, texture, margins, and papillations of tongue patterns.RESULT: The most common pattern seen in males and females was Patternless, with majority of subjects showing scalloped lateral margins, prominent papillations with short and broad tongue. Mostly female patients had pointed tip of tongue. Also, we in this paper have formulated a working classification system for easily categorizing the tongue print patterns in individuals.CONCLUSION: The human tongue is unique and delivers relevant information about shape, size, color, texture, margins and is suitable for forensic case identification.