In determining sex from skeletal remains, which pelvic dimension has the highest single discriminant accuracy?

• A Bi-iliac breadth
• B Sacral index
• C Iliac index
• D Sub-pubic angle ✓

Explanation

The sub-pubic angle is the most reliable single skeletal feature for sex determination, with accuracy approaching 95%. In females, the angle exceeds 90° (obtuse, U-shaped) to accommodate parturition, whereas in males it is typically less than 70° (acute, V-shaped). The greater sciatic notch angle is the second most reliable feature. Bi-iliac breadth and iliac index provide supplementary data but with lower individual discriminant power. The pelvis overall is the most sexually dimorphic region of the human skeleton.

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.