The LAST ossification centre in the human body to fuse (most commonly used to establish 'majority' — age 25 years) is located at:
- A Medial (sternal) end of clavicle ✓
- B Head of femur
- C Iliac crest
- D Calcaneal apophysis
Correct answer: A. Medial (sternal) end of clavicle
Explanation
The medial (sternal) end of the clavicle is the last epiphysis to unite in the human skeleton, fusing between ages 22–30 years (most commonly 25 years). This makes it the single most valuable landmark for confirming that an individual has attained 'full skeletal maturity' or age ≥25 years. The Juvenile Justice Act threshold of 18 years is assessed by fusion of the iliac crest (approximately 18–21 years) or distal radius. The calcaneal apophysis fuses at approximately 12–16 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.