Fingerprint

From WikiMD's medical encyclopedia

Fingerprint

A fingerprint is an impression left by the friction ridges of a human finger. The recovery of partial fingerprints from a crime scene is an important method of forensic science. Moisture and grease on fingers result in fingerprints on surfaces such as glass or metal.

Characteristics

Fingerprints are typically formed from the epidermis layer of the skin. They are unique to each individual and do not change over time, making them a reliable tool for identification. The three basic patterns of fingerprint ridges are the arch, loop, and whorl.

Arch

An arch is a pattern where the ridges enter from one side of the finger, rise in the center forming an arc, and then exit the other side of the finger.

Loop

A loop is a pattern where the ridges enter from one side of a finger, form a curve, and tend to exit from the same side they enter.

Whorl

A whorl is a pattern of spirals or concentric circles.

Uses

Fingerprints are used in numerous fields, primarily for the purpose of identification. They are commonly used in forensic science to identify suspects in a crime. They are also used in biometric technology for secure access to devices and systems.

History

The use of fingerprints for identification has been employed in many cultures throughout history. The ancient Babylonians used fingerprints on clay tablets for business transactions. In the modern era, the systematic use of fingerprints in criminal investigations began in the late 19th century.

Gallery

See also

WHO Rod.svg
This article is a medical stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!
PubMed
Wikipedia
Stub icon
   This article is a medical stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP-1 injections from $125.

W8mdlogo.png
W8MD weight loss doctors team

W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:

NYC weight loss doctor appointments

Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.

Linkedin_Shiny_Icon Facebook_Shiny_Icon YouTube_icon_(2011-2013) Google plus


Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD