Age estimation from cranial suture closure is attempted in an unknown adult skull. Which statement about ectocranial versus endocranial suture closure is correct?

• A Endocranial closure occurs earlier and is the more reliable guide to age ✓
• B Ectocranial closure follows a more regular timetable than endocranial closure
• C Both surfaces close simultaneously and carry equal weight in age estimation
• D Suture closure is equally accurate at all ages up to 80 years

Explanation

Endocranial sutures begin closing earlier and proceed on a steadier schedule than the ectocranial surface, giving the better age estimate. Ectocranial closure is notoriously variable and can remain patent even in the very elderly, which is exactly why option B fails. Because of this variability, suture closure alone is regarded as a poor indicator beyond middle age in standard forensic texts.

Reference: Parikh's Textbook of Medical Jurisprudence, Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, 9th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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