Publication:

Association between fingerprint patterns and prostate cancer grade among blacks: a cross-sectional review

Background Prostate cancer is a major global health concern, with higher incidence and aggressiveness among Black men. Owing to its genetic basis, numerous biomarkers have been explored for early detection and prognosis. Simple, low-cost, and less invasive tools are particularly valuable for African populations. Fingerprints, which are genetically determined and unique to individuals, have been investigated as a potential marker for prostate cancer risk. Objective of the study was to examine fingerprint pattern prevalence among Nigerian men with prostate cancer and assess associations with histological grades.

Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2012 to July 2023 among 52 newly diagnosed patients. Fingerprints were captured using a digital reader, standardized, analyzed, and classified. Statistical analysis (Chi-square test) was performed using statistical package for social science (SPSS) v19.0, with significance set at p<0.05.

Results Loop and composite patterns each accounted for 34.6%, while whorl and arch patterns represented 23.1% and 7.7%, respectively. Among loop patterns, 55.5% were high-grade (ISUP 4 or 5). Composite patterns showed majority (33.3%) ISUP 4, with the highest proportion (83.3%) in loop + arch composites. Whorl patterns were more frequent in low-grade (ISUP 1) disease (41.7%). No statistically significant association was found between fingerprint patterns and ISUP grades (χ²=13.868, p=0.309).

Conclusion Loop patterns were most frequent, particularly in high-grade disease, but lacked statistical significance as a predictor. Larger, multicenter studies are needed to clarify potential links between dermatoglyphics and prostate cancer.