Does the index-to-ring finger length ratio (2D:4D) differ in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)? Results from an international online case–control study

At a glance

A case-control study comparing ratio of index finger to ring finger and the development of ALS

Affiliates

Jane A. Parkin Kullmann1, Roger Pamphlett1

  1. Discipline of Pathology, Sydney Medical School, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney

Journal

BMJ Open

Summary

Literature has indicated an association between a lower ratio of the length of the index finger (2D) to the ring finger (4D) (2D:4D) and developing ALS. This led to the suggestion that increased prenatal exposure to testosterone, which also lowers the 2D:4D ratio, could be a risk factor for ALS. This case control enlisted 202 patients with ALS and 370 non-ALS controls. While males had significantly lower mean 2D:4D ratio than females, regardless of ALS status, there were no detectable differences between ALS and control groups.

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