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Reliability of the Greulich and Pyle Atlas When Applied to a Modern Scottish Population

NCJ Number
243737
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 58 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2013 Pages: 114-119
Author(s)
Lucina Hackman, M.Sc.; Sue Black, Ph.D.
Date Published
January 2013
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This study examines the reliability of age estimation utilizing the Greulich and Pyle atlas in relation to a modern Scottish population.
Abstract
This study examines the reliability of age estimation utilizing the Greulich and Pyle atlas in relation to a modern Scottish population. A total of 406 left-hand/wrist radiographs (157 females and 249 males) were age-assessed using the Greulich and Pyle atlas. Analysis showed that there was a strong correlation between chronological age and estimated age (females R2 = 0.939, males R2 = 0.940). When age groups were broken down into year cohorts, the atlas over-aged females from birth until 13 years of age. The pattern for males showed that the atlas under-estimated age until 13 years of age after which point it consistently over-aged boys between 13 and 17 years of age. This study showed that the Greulich and Pyle atlas can be applied to a modern population but would recommend that any analysis takes into account the potential for over- and under-aging shown in this study. Abstract published by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons.