Normative data for anthropometric parameters used in delineation of dysmorphic features in north Indian children.

OBJECTIVE

To provide normative data for a set of anthropometric parameters which are commonly used in delineation of dysmorphic features.

METHODS

This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital of Delhi. Six hundred infants and children up to 2 years with hundred subjects each in the age group of 0-3, 3-6, 6-9, 9-12, 12-18 and 18-24 months were included. Both sexes were represented equally in the sample to avoid bias. Inner and outer intercanthal distance were measured by sliding callipers. Inter pupillary distance was measured directly as the distance between midpoint of two pupils. Ear length was the maximum vertical distance from the superior to the inferior edge of the ear. Internipple distance was the distance between centre of both nipples. Hand length was the distance between distal wrist crease to the tip of middle finger. Middle finger length was the distance between proximal flexion crease and tip of middle finger. The data was analyzed using the LMS method and percentile curves were developed for each age group for all the seven parameters.

RESULTS

No statistically significant differences between male and female infants were observed. Significant differences were observed from other south east Asian and Caucasian population stressing the need for generation of regional ethnic data. The percentage of other isolated anomalies noted was 1.16% for polydactyly, 2-4 syndactyly 2-4 toe syndactyly (0.89%), Preauricular tags (0.5%), double whorl pattern of hair (1.55%), 2-4 syndactyly (0.33%) and paraumbilical hernia (2.83%).

CONCLUSIONS

Normative data directed towards the ethnic origin are useful in charting dysmorphic traits. Children with parameters less than 3rd percentile or more than 97th percentile should be evaluated for other co-existing anomalies. Percentile charts provided in the present study may also be applicable across India but more studies are required to validate the authors' contention.