Age estimation is a critical aspect of forensic identification, particularly in adults, where traditional skeletal markers become less reliable. Cranial suture closure, though controversial, remains a valuable parameter, especially when population-specific standards are applied. This study aimed to assess the correlation between cranial suture closure and chronological age in the Gujarati population. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 medicolegal autopsy cases (50 males, 50 females) aged 13–78 years. Suture closure was assessed using the Acsadi-Nemeskeri scoring system across 16 defined cranial segments. Both endocranial and ectocranial surfaces were examined. In this study, Sagittal sutures closed earliest (30s), followed by coronal (40s), and lambdoid (50+), with near-complete fusion by 60 years. Endocranial closure demonstrated slightly higher accuracy (85%, MAE ± 4.2 years) compared to ectocranial (81%, MAE ± 4.8 years). Correlation with age was strongest for endocranial sagittal sutures (r = 0.946). No significant gender differences were observed. The findings indicate cranial suture closure, particularly endocranial sagittal fusion, is a reliable, gender-independent method for age estimation in the Gujarati population. It is most accurate in individuals aged 30–60 years and should be incorporated into forensic protocols alongside other age indicators.
Pathan et al. (Tue,) studied this question.