[The external ear--a marker in identification].

Abstract

The ear, well known anatomically in earlier investigations was only measured. We looked for 144 newborns and children (sex, age, morphology). We studied carefully and first of all systematically size, form and condition of the auricula. The form is genetically determined. Babies have a relative big ear between 9 and 15 months of age (accelerated?). In early time (20 century) this development only seen by children 3 years old. Eight specific characters changes with age (months). Outcome are proofed on 732 pupils. In forensic medicine a scientist should know this results before expertise of identification by mass disasters or unknown children.