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Sex Estimation from Human Cranium: Forensic and Anthropological Interest of Maxillary Sinus Volumes |
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| Authors: | Thomas Radulesco M.D. Justin Michel M.D. Ph.D. Julien Mancini M.D. Ph.D. Patrick Dessi M.D. Ph.D. Pascal Adalian M.D. Ph.D. |
| Affiliation: | 1. Department of Oto‐Rhino‐Laryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Assistance Publique H?pitaux de Marseille, La Conception University Hospital, Marseille, France;2. Anthropology ADES UMR 7268 AMU EFS CNRS, Aix‐Marseille University, Marseille, France;3. Biostatistics Department, La Timone University Hospital, APHM, Marseille, France;4. Inserm, IRD, UMR912 SESSTIM, Aix‐Marseille University, Marseille, France |
| Abstract: | Sex estimation is a key objective of forensic science. We aimed to establish whether maxillary sinus volumes (MSV) could assist in estimating an individual's sex. One hundred and three CT scans were included. MSV were determined using three‐dimensional reconstructions. Two observers performed three‐dimensional MSV reconstructions using the same methods. Intra‐ and interobserver reproducibility were statistically compared using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) (α = 5%). Both intra‐ and interobserver reproducibility were perfect regarding MSV; both ICCs were 100%. There were no significant differences between right and left MSV (p = 0.083). No correlation was found between age and MSV (p > 0.05). We demonstrated the existence of sexual dimorphism in MSV (p < 0.001) and showed that MSV measurements gave a 68% rate of correct allocations to sex group. MSV measurements could be useful to support sex estimation in forensic medicine. |
| Keywords: | forensic science sex estimation human cranium maxillary sinus volume sexual dimorphism |