Regarding age estimation from cranial suture closure in an adult skull, which statement is correct?

• A Ectocranial closure precedes endocranial closure at the same suture
• B Endocranial closure precedes ectocranial closure at the same suture ✓
• C All major sutures fuse completely by 20 years
• D Suture closure is the most reliable method of adult age estimation

Explanation

Fusion of a cranial suture begins and progresses earlier on the endocranial surface than on the outer ectocranial surface, so endocranial closure is the better guide. The sagittal suture is generally the first of the major sutures to close, starting around 25 to 30 years, followed by the coronal, then the lambdoid, which may remain patent late in life. Suture closure is only a supportive method because it shows wide individual variation; the pubic symphysis is far more reliable in adults.

Reference: Parikh's Textbook of Medical Jurisprudence and Toxicology, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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