A skeletal X-ray of an unidentified individual shows complete fusion of the medial clavicular epiphysis. According to Kohler and Zimmer's criteria, this indicates an age of at least:

• A 21–25 years ✓
• B 16–17 years
• C 18–19 years
• D 30 years or above

Explanation

The medial (sternal) end of the clavicle is the LAST epiphysis to fuse in the human skeleton, completing fusion between 21 and 25 years of age (most sources cite 22–30 years). This is a critically important landmark for forensic age estimation, particularly in legal contexts where establishing whether an individual is above 18 (Juvenile Justice Act) or above 21 years is required. Identification of complete sternal clavicular fusion is strong evidence of being at least 21 years old. It is frequently tested in NEET PG for this specific reason.

Reference: The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (Narayan Reddy), 34th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.