A 16-year-old boy's age is disputed in a criminal case. Forensic age estimation by wrist X-ray shows complete fusion of the distal radial epiphysis. This finding corresponds to a minimum age of:

• A 12–14 years
• B 20–22 years
• C 25–26 years
• D 16–18 years ✓

Explanation

The distal radial epiphysis (lower end of radius) fuses between 16–18 years in males (slightly earlier in females). A fused distal radius in a skeletal or radiological examination therefore indicates that the individual has reached at least 16 years of age in males. This is particularly relevant in India for determining whether an accused is a minor under the Juvenile Justice Act. The fusion of the medial clavicular epiphysis (last to fuse) indicates age ≥25–26 years.

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.