Background: Myocardial infarction is the most important cause of mortality and morbidity in the world. The knowledge of major risk factors can be useful in prevention of it. The objective of this study is to investigate the relation between the dermatoglyphic patterns as an indication of genetic susceptibility in the incidence of myocardial infarction. Dermatoglyphics has been well established as a diagnostic aid in a number of diseases having hereditary basis. Materials & Method: The method used to collect the dermatoglyphic patterns for the present study was standard ink method. Before taking the print persons asked to wash hands with soap and water to remove oil, sweat and dirt from the skin. Total 180 cases of both sex ( 90 patients of myocardial infarction & 90 controls normal healthy) were included. Results: It was found that patients of myocardial infarction have decrease in ulnar loops & increase in whorls and increase in total finger ridge count. These genetic factors are reflected as changes in dermatoglyphic pattern in patients of ischemic heart disease. Sophisticated investigations may not be possible in all cases. Conclusion: Dermatoglyphics may be used as a screening test & preventive measures in development of myocardial infarction.

Keywords: - Dermatoglyphics, Myocardial infarction, Palm print, Loops, Arches, Whorls.