CASE REPORT
Human Identification Through the Analysis of Smile Photographs Rhonan Ferreira Silva, DDS, PhD, MSc, Ademir Franco, DDS, MSc, João Batista de Souza, DDS, Fernando Fortes Picoli, DDS, Solon Diego Santos Carvalho Mendes, DDS, and Fernando Gomes Nunes, DDS Abstract: The comparison between antemortem and portmortem data comprehends the basis of the dental identification process. High-tech devices allow for optimal manipulation of postmortem data. However, in especial situations, the victims do not have records of dental treatments, making necessary the search for antemortem data from personal belongings. Smile photographs are one of the most common sources of dental information detected from personal belongings. In this context, the present study reports a forensic case in which a charred body was positively identified through the application of 3 techniques for the analysis of smile photographs. Key Words: human identification, smile photographs, charred body, forensic odontology (Am J Forensic Med Pathol 2015;36: 71–74)
T
he comparison between postmortem (PM) and antemortem (AM) data comprehends the basis of the dental identification process.1 Despite being involved into the same comparative procedure, these 2 data present distinct characteristics. While the PM data are acquired and manipulated through infinite possibilities,2,3 the AM data are often scarce. In addition, the registration of PM data is technically performed by forensic experts, whereas the AM data do not always present the necessary quality. Dental treatment comprises an optimal source of AM data, such as radiographs, plaster models, and personal files.4 However, in some situations, the potential victims do not have dental records, making necessary the search for AM data from personal belongings.5 In this context, smile photographs play an important role registering the victim’s teeth in different periods of life, additionally allowing for further comparisons with PM data. Currently, technological advances enabled easier procedures for imaging manipulation, culminating in useful techniques for the interpretation of smile photographs with human identification purposes.6,7 Specifically, the direct comparison of morphological dental traits, dental superimposition, and the analysis of the incisal contours of the anterior teeth are commonly applied techniques with scientific validation. Thus, the present study reports a case in which positive identification was achieved out of the application of these techniques in a single AM smile photograph.
CASE REPORT In 2011, a charred body, compatible with an adult man, was referred for PM examination after airplane crash. Investigations on the cause of death pointed out multiple trauma and thermal Manuscript received February 22, 2014; accepted February 26, 2015. From the Scientific Police of Goias, Goiania, Goias, Brazil. The authors report no conflict of interest. Reprints: Rhonan Ferreira Silva, DDS, PhD, MSc, Instituto Médico-Legal, Avenida Atílio Correa Lima 1223, Cidade Jardim, Goiania, Goias, Brazil 74425-030. E-mail: [email protected]. Copyright © 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved. ISSN: 0195-7910/15/3602-0071 DOI: 10.1097/PAF.0000000000000148
Am J Forensic Med Pathol • Volume 36, Number 2, June 2015
reaction. The dental autopsy was performed after resection of maxilla and mandible, revealing valuable identifiers such as dental amalgam and composite restorations, agenesis of the upper left lateral incisor (tooth 22), impacted third molars, and crowded canines (Fig. 1). The flight list of passengers indicated that body belonged to a 21-year-old man. In order to confirm the identity of the potential victim, a smile photograph, dating from 2008, was obtained from the involved relatives for confrontation with the collected PM data. Specifically, the photograph showed the absence of the upper left lateral incisor and an upper left canine tilted to the mesial side. In addition, the dental anatomy was clearly observed in the AM photograph, allowing for tracing the contours of the incisal edges of the anterior teeth (Fig. 2A). In this context, the AM photograph enabled the performance of 3 different forensic techniques for human identification: (1) direct comparison, (2) image superimposition, and (3) the analysis of upper and lower incisal edges. The direct comparison consists on the confrontation of AM and PM images, placing the same anatomical region side by side, in which the PM image must reproduce the same position observed AM. This technique specially allows for the detection of present and absent teeth, the analysis of dental crown morphology, the position of the dental arches, the presence of dental interventions, and even oral pathologies (Fig. 2). Yet the technique of superimposition requires an imaging editing software. In the present case, Adobe Photoshop (Adobe Systems Inc, San Jose, Calif ) CS5 was used. Thus, PM photographs in frontal view are taken, cropped, and dragged to superimpose the AM photographs. Finally, imaging adjustment of opacity is leveled in 50%, allowing the visualization of both AM and PM layers simultaneously (Fig. 3). The third technique applied aimed to highlight the upper and lower incisal edges, through computerized designing, using the same image editing software. Thus, the contours of the AM and PM incisal surfaces from canine to canine are detected. The software must allow contour color application aiding further comparisons. In the present case, Interpol colors yellow and pink were respectively used for the registration of AM and PM data. Once highlighted, the incisal contours can be dragged near each other for an optimal comparison (Figs. 4–6). A positive identification was detected out of the application of the 3 techniques.
DISCUSSION The human identification procedure for decomposed and charred bodies often requires a forensic multidisciplinary approach including anthropology, medicine, dentistry, and genetics.8,9 However, various centers for forensic expertise do not afford high-tech devices because of its expensive costs, especially in emerging countries. In this context, alternative techniques for dental examination represent optional tools during the search for identity. The use of smile photographs is a valuable and low-cost alternative for the investigations of identity.6 Specifically, smile www.amjforensicmedicine.com
Copyright © 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
71
Am J Forensic Med Pathol • Volume 36, Number 2, June 2015
Silva et al
FIGURE 1. Postmortem occlusal view of the maxilla (A) and mandible (B).
FIGURE 2. Technique of direct comparison between AM (A) and PM (B) photographs.
photographs reveal unique identifiers such as the morphology, arrangement, and pathologies of the anterior teeth, especially in close-up views.10 Among these identifiers, the dental morphology is the most cited during the analysis of smile photographs, representing 83.3% in relation to the other identifiers,10 consequently playing a valuable part as an identification tool.11 Moreover, the AM/PM comparison of smile photographs was tested in relation to its applicability, indicating that even properly trained undergraduate students are able to perform comparative identifications.10 In the practical forensic routine, the analysis of smile photographs was successfully applied by Silva et al,5 combined with anthropological analysis, for the positive identification of 3 fatal victims. Similarly, Terada et al12 and Tinoco et al,13 respectively, identified skeletonized and highly decomposed victims. Both authors highlight the value of the dental position in the arches during comparative identifications through smile photographs. On the other hand, Lorkiewicz-Muszynska et al14 reported limitations related to the comparison of AM/PM smile photographs, indicating that specific training must be designed for forensic experts willing to perform photographic analysis. In this context, innovations were developed for systematic comparisons through smile photographs. de Angelis et al6 described a comparative method in which photographs are implemented into imaging manipulation software, making feasible the creation of distinct layers for both AM and PM data. Thus, the simultaneous visualization of these data allows the superimposition of both for potential matching. Similarly, Bollinger et al7 reported the usefulness of creating layers for AM and PM photographs and cropping incisal edges of the anterior teeth for further comparisons. This method also enables metrical analysis of the teeth, improving the outcomes. In the present report, 3 techniques, named the (1) direct comparison, (2) image superimposition, and (3) the analysis of upper
72
www.amjforensicmedicine.com
FIGURE 3. Technique of image superimposition between AM and PM photographs. © 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
Copyright © 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
Am J Forensic Med Pathol • Volume 36, Number 2, June 2015
Human Identification Through Smile
FIGURE 4. Technique for the analysis of incisal edges applied for the upper teeth.
FIGURE 5. Technique for the analysis of incisal edges applied for the lower teeth.
and lower incisal edges for achieving a positive identification. The combination of these methods culminated in a detailed procedure for human identification based on smile photographs, revealing that even simple and low-quality AM data, such as personal smile photographs, allow for human identification through alternative pathways. Accordingly, Ritter et al15 and Silva et al5 call the attention for correctly recording the dental data into the daily routine of clinicians, as well as keeping the patients’ files updated, collaborating for a potential forensic AM search.
CONCLUSIONS
FIGURE 6. Comparison between contour lines of AM and PM incisal edges. © 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
Despite the advances in the forensic sciences, traditional techniques have still great value, specifically in emerging and developing countries. The implementation of computerized low-cost systems in the forensic routine allows for the creation of alternative pathways of identification, such as advanced comparison of AM and PM photographs. The present case successfully reports a positive human identification based on dental traits from a single smile photograph by performing traditional and updated image processing techniques. www.amjforensicmedicine.com
Copyright © 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
73
Am J Forensic Med Pathol • Volume 36, Number 2, June 2015
Silva et al
REFERENCES 1. Franco A, Thevissen P, Coudyzer W, et al. Feasibility and validation of virtual autopsy for dental identification using the Interpol dental codes. J Forensic Leg Med. 2013;20:248–254. 2. Abduo J, Bennamoun M. Three-dimensional image registration as a tool for forensic odontology: a preliminary investigation. Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 2013;34:260–266. 3. Introna F, Santoro V, de Donno A, Belviso M. Morphologic analysis of third molar maturity by digital orthopantomographic assessment. Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 2010;29:55–61. 4. Silva RF, Franco A, Dias PEM, et al. Interrelationship between forensic radiology and forensic odontology. J Forensic Radiol Imaging. 2013;4:201–206. 5. Silva RF, Pereira SD, Prado FB, et al. Forensic odontology identification using smile photographs analysis—case reports. J Forensic Odontostomatol. 2008;26:12–17. 6. de Angelis D, Cattaneo C, Grandi M. Dental superimposition: a pilot study for understanding the method. Int J Legal Med. 2007;121: 501–506. 7. Bollinger SA, Brumit PC, Schrader BA, et al. GrinLine identification using digital imaging and Adobe Photoshop®. J Forensic Sci. 2009;54:422–427.
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8. Beggan C, Towers M, Farrell M, et al. Spinal diastematomyelia: a means of identification of charred remains. J Forensic Leg Med. 2014;21:5–8. 9. Silva RF, Botelho TL, Prado FB, et al. Human identification based on cranial computed tomography scan: a case report. Dentomaxillofac Radiol. 2011;40:257–261. 10. Silva RF, Lima LNC, Martorell LB, et al. Comparative study among dentistry undergraduate students through smile photographs for human identification. RSBO. 2012;9:407–415. 11. Pereira CP, Santos JC. How to identify single cases according to the quality assurance from IOFOS. The positive identification of an unidentified body by dental parameters: a case of homicide. J Forensic Leg Med. 2013;20: 169–173. 12. Terada ASSD, Leite NLP, Silveira TCP, et al. Human identification in forensic dentistry from a photographic record of smile: a case report [in Portuguese]. Rev Odontol UNESP. 2011;40:199–202. 13. Tinoco RLR, Martins EC, Daruge E Jr, et al. Dental anomalies and their value in human identification: a case report. J Forensic Odontostomatol. 2010;28:39–43. 14. Lorkiewicz-Muszynska D, Przystanska A, Glapinski M, et al. Difficulties in personal identification caused by unreliable dental records. J Forensic Leg Med. 2013;20:1135–1138. 15. Ritter DE, Gandini LG Jr, Pinto AS, et al. Analysis of the smile photograph. World J Orthod. 2006;7:279–285.
© 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
Copyright © 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
Human Identification Through the Analysis of Smile Photographs Rhonan Ferreira Silva, DDS, PhD, MSc, Ademir Franco, DDS, MSc, João Batista de Souza, DDS, Fernando Fortes Picoli, DDS, Solon Diego Santos Carvalho Mendes, DDS, and Fernando Gomes Nunes, DDS Abstract: The comparison between antemortem and portmortem data comprehends the basis of the dental identification process. High-tech devices allow for optimal manipulation of postmortem data. However, in especial situations, the victims do not have records of dental treatments, making necessary the search for antemortem data from personal belongings. Smile photographs are one of the most common sources of dental information detected from personal belongings. In this context, the present study reports a forensic case in which a charred body was positively identified through the application of 3 techniques for the analysis of smile photographs. Key Words: human identification, smile photographs, charred body, forensic odontology (Am J Forensic Med Pathol 2015;36: 71–74)
T
he comparison between postmortem (PM) and antemortem (AM) data comprehends the basis of the dental identification process.1 Despite being involved into the same comparative procedure, these 2 data present distinct characteristics. While the PM data are acquired and manipulated through infinite possibilities,2,3 the AM data are often scarce. In addition, the registration of PM data is technically performed by forensic experts, whereas the AM data do not always present the necessary quality. Dental treatment comprises an optimal source of AM data, such as radiographs, plaster models, and personal files.4 However, in some situations, the potential victims do not have dental records, making necessary the search for AM data from personal belongings.5 In this context, smile photographs play an important role registering the victim’s teeth in different periods of life, additionally allowing for further comparisons with PM data. Currently, technological advances enabled easier procedures for imaging manipulation, culminating in useful techniques for the interpretation of smile photographs with human identification purposes.6,7 Specifically, the direct comparison of morphological dental traits, dental superimposition, and the analysis of the incisal contours of the anterior teeth are commonly applied techniques with scientific validation. Thus, the present study reports a case in which positive identification was achieved out of the application of these techniques in a single AM smile photograph.
CASE REPORT In 2011, a charred body, compatible with an adult man, was referred for PM examination after airplane crash. Investigations on the cause of death pointed out multiple trauma and thermal Manuscript received February 22, 2014; accepted February 26, 2015. From the Scientific Police of Goias, Goiania, Goias, Brazil. The authors report no conflict of interest. Reprints: Rhonan Ferreira Silva, DDS, PhD, MSc, Instituto Médico-Legal, Avenida Atílio Correa Lima 1223, Cidade Jardim, Goiania, Goias, Brazil 74425-030. E-mail: [email protected]. Copyright © 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved. ISSN: 0195-7910/15/3602-0071 DOI: 10.1097/PAF.0000000000000148
Am J Forensic Med Pathol • Volume 36, Number 2, June 2015
reaction. The dental autopsy was performed after resection of maxilla and mandible, revealing valuable identifiers such as dental amalgam and composite restorations, agenesis of the upper left lateral incisor (tooth 22), impacted third molars, and crowded canines (Fig. 1). The flight list of passengers indicated that body belonged to a 21-year-old man. In order to confirm the identity of the potential victim, a smile photograph, dating from 2008, was obtained from the involved relatives for confrontation with the collected PM data. Specifically, the photograph showed the absence of the upper left lateral incisor and an upper left canine tilted to the mesial side. In addition, the dental anatomy was clearly observed in the AM photograph, allowing for tracing the contours of the incisal edges of the anterior teeth (Fig. 2A). In this context, the AM photograph enabled the performance of 3 different forensic techniques for human identification: (1) direct comparison, (2) image superimposition, and (3) the analysis of upper and lower incisal edges. The direct comparison consists on the confrontation of AM and PM images, placing the same anatomical region side by side, in which the PM image must reproduce the same position observed AM. This technique specially allows for the detection of present and absent teeth, the analysis of dental crown morphology, the position of the dental arches, the presence of dental interventions, and even oral pathologies (Fig. 2). Yet the technique of superimposition requires an imaging editing software. In the present case, Adobe Photoshop (Adobe Systems Inc, San Jose, Calif ) CS5 was used. Thus, PM photographs in frontal view are taken, cropped, and dragged to superimpose the AM photographs. Finally, imaging adjustment of opacity is leveled in 50%, allowing the visualization of both AM and PM layers simultaneously (Fig. 3). The third technique applied aimed to highlight the upper and lower incisal edges, through computerized designing, using the same image editing software. Thus, the contours of the AM and PM incisal surfaces from canine to canine are detected. The software must allow contour color application aiding further comparisons. In the present case, Interpol colors yellow and pink were respectively used for the registration of AM and PM data. Once highlighted, the incisal contours can be dragged near each other for an optimal comparison (Figs. 4–6). A positive identification was detected out of the application of the 3 techniques.
DISCUSSION The human identification procedure for decomposed and charred bodies often requires a forensic multidisciplinary approach including anthropology, medicine, dentistry, and genetics.8,9 However, various centers for forensic expertise do not afford high-tech devices because of its expensive costs, especially in emerging countries. In this context, alternative techniques for dental examination represent optional tools during the search for identity. The use of smile photographs is a valuable and low-cost alternative for the investigations of identity.6 Specifically, smile www.amjforensicmedicine.com
Copyright © 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
71
Am J Forensic Med Pathol • Volume 36, Number 2, June 2015
Silva et al
FIGURE 1. Postmortem occlusal view of the maxilla (A) and mandible (B).
FIGURE 2. Technique of direct comparison between AM (A) and PM (B) photographs.
photographs reveal unique identifiers such as the morphology, arrangement, and pathologies of the anterior teeth, especially in close-up views.10 Among these identifiers, the dental morphology is the most cited during the analysis of smile photographs, representing 83.3% in relation to the other identifiers,10 consequently playing a valuable part as an identification tool.11 Moreover, the AM/PM comparison of smile photographs was tested in relation to its applicability, indicating that even properly trained undergraduate students are able to perform comparative identifications.10 In the practical forensic routine, the analysis of smile photographs was successfully applied by Silva et al,5 combined with anthropological analysis, for the positive identification of 3 fatal victims. Similarly, Terada et al12 and Tinoco et al,13 respectively, identified skeletonized and highly decomposed victims. Both authors highlight the value of the dental position in the arches during comparative identifications through smile photographs. On the other hand, Lorkiewicz-Muszynska et al14 reported limitations related to the comparison of AM/PM smile photographs, indicating that specific training must be designed for forensic experts willing to perform photographic analysis. In this context, innovations were developed for systematic comparisons through smile photographs. de Angelis et al6 described a comparative method in which photographs are implemented into imaging manipulation software, making feasible the creation of distinct layers for both AM and PM data. Thus, the simultaneous visualization of these data allows the superimposition of both for potential matching. Similarly, Bollinger et al7 reported the usefulness of creating layers for AM and PM photographs and cropping incisal edges of the anterior teeth for further comparisons. This method also enables metrical analysis of the teeth, improving the outcomes. In the present report, 3 techniques, named the (1) direct comparison, (2) image superimposition, and (3) the analysis of upper
72
www.amjforensicmedicine.com
FIGURE 3. Technique of image superimposition between AM and PM photographs. © 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
Copyright © 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
Am J Forensic Med Pathol • Volume 36, Number 2, June 2015
Human Identification Through Smile
FIGURE 4. Technique for the analysis of incisal edges applied for the upper teeth.
FIGURE 5. Technique for the analysis of incisal edges applied for the lower teeth.
and lower incisal edges for achieving a positive identification. The combination of these methods culminated in a detailed procedure for human identification based on smile photographs, revealing that even simple and low-quality AM data, such as personal smile photographs, allow for human identification through alternative pathways. Accordingly, Ritter et al15 and Silva et al5 call the attention for correctly recording the dental data into the daily routine of clinicians, as well as keeping the patients’ files updated, collaborating for a potential forensic AM search.
CONCLUSIONS
FIGURE 6. Comparison between contour lines of AM and PM incisal edges. © 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
Despite the advances in the forensic sciences, traditional techniques have still great value, specifically in emerging and developing countries. The implementation of computerized low-cost systems in the forensic routine allows for the creation of alternative pathways of identification, such as advanced comparison of AM and PM photographs. The present case successfully reports a positive human identification based on dental traits from a single smile photograph by performing traditional and updated image processing techniques. www.amjforensicmedicine.com
Copyright © 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
73
Am J Forensic Med Pathol • Volume 36, Number 2, June 2015
Silva et al
REFERENCES 1. Franco A, Thevissen P, Coudyzer W, et al. Feasibility and validation of virtual autopsy for dental identification using the Interpol dental codes. J Forensic Leg Med. 2013;20:248–254. 2. Abduo J, Bennamoun M. Three-dimensional image registration as a tool for forensic odontology: a preliminary investigation. Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 2013;34:260–266. 3. Introna F, Santoro V, de Donno A, Belviso M. Morphologic analysis of third molar maturity by digital orthopantomographic assessment. Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 2010;29:55–61. 4. Silva RF, Franco A, Dias PEM, et al. Interrelationship between forensic radiology and forensic odontology. J Forensic Radiol Imaging. 2013;4:201–206. 5. Silva RF, Pereira SD, Prado FB, et al. Forensic odontology identification using smile photographs analysis—case reports. J Forensic Odontostomatol. 2008;26:12–17. 6. de Angelis D, Cattaneo C, Grandi M. Dental superimposition: a pilot study for understanding the method. Int J Legal Med. 2007;121: 501–506. 7. Bollinger SA, Brumit PC, Schrader BA, et al. GrinLine identification using digital imaging and Adobe Photoshop®. J Forensic Sci. 2009;54:422–427.
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www.amjforensicmedicine.com
8. Beggan C, Towers M, Farrell M, et al. Spinal diastematomyelia: a means of identification of charred remains. J Forensic Leg Med. 2014;21:5–8. 9. Silva RF, Botelho TL, Prado FB, et al. Human identification based on cranial computed tomography scan: a case report. Dentomaxillofac Radiol. 2011;40:257–261. 10. Silva RF, Lima LNC, Martorell LB, et al. Comparative study among dentistry undergraduate students through smile photographs for human identification. RSBO. 2012;9:407–415. 11. Pereira CP, Santos JC. How to identify single cases according to the quality assurance from IOFOS. The positive identification of an unidentified body by dental parameters: a case of homicide. J Forensic Leg Med. 2013;20: 169–173. 12. Terada ASSD, Leite NLP, Silveira TCP, et al. Human identification in forensic dentistry from a photographic record of smile: a case report [in Portuguese]. Rev Odontol UNESP. 2011;40:199–202. 13. Tinoco RLR, Martins EC, Daruge E Jr, et al. Dental anomalies and their value in human identification: a case report. J Forensic Odontostomatol. 2010;28:39–43. 14. Lorkiewicz-Muszynska D, Przystanska A, Glapinski M, et al. Difficulties in personal identification caused by unreliable dental records. J Forensic Leg Med. 2013;20:1135–1138. 15. Ritter DE, Gandini LG Jr, Pinto AS, et al. Analysis of the smile photograph. World J Orthod. 2006;7:279–285.
© 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
Copyright © 2015 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
