The study of fingerprints and skin ridge patterns, used for identification and diagnosis of genetic conditions.
From Greek 'derma' (skin) and 'glyphikos' (carved), with '-ics' indicating a field of study. Dermatoglyphics emerged as a scientific discipline in the early 20th century.
Dermatoglyphics isn't just for criminal investigations—doctors use fingerprint patterns to diagnose genetic disorders like Down syndrome, which creates characteristic ridge pattern changes.
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