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Adermatoglyphia
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Condition

Adermatoglyphia

Adermatoglyphia is a rare condition characterized by the absence of ridges on the skin of the fingers, toes, palms, and soles, resulting in the lack of fingerprints.

Overview

Adermatoglyphia is the absence of dermatoglyphs—the ridges that form the unique whorls, arches, and loops known as fingerprints. Because affected individuals lack these ridges, they cannot be identified by fingerprinting, leading to the nickname "immigration delay disease." In some families, this is the only sign, while in others, it may be associated with skin features such as small white bumps (milia), skin blistering, or a reduced number of sweat glands.

Causes

Adermatoglyphia is caused by mutations in the SMARCAD1 gene. This gene produces two versions of the SMARCAD1 protein: a full-length version and a shorter, skin-specific version. Mutations affecting the skin-specific version reduce the amount of protein available in skin cells. Researchers believe this shortage impairs signaling pathways necessary for normal skin development and the formation of dermatoglyphs before birth.

Inheritance

Adermatoglyphia is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, meaning one copy of the altered SMARCAD1 gene in each cell is sufficient to cause the condition. In many cases, an affected person has one parent with the condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Doctors first look for the absence of fingerprints and other skin ridges on the fingers, toes, palms, and soles during a physical exam. If the skin appears smooth and lacks the usual whorls, loops, or arches, a genetic test is usually ordered. The test looks for mutations in the SMARCAD1 gene, which is the only known cause of the condition. A positive result on the genetic test confirms the diagnosis.
Because people with adermatoglyphia do not have fingerprints, standard biometric systems that rely on fingerprint recognition will not work. For legal identification, you can use alternative methods such as iris scans, facial recognition, or DNA profiling. When traveling, it is helpful to carry a medical note explaining the condition and to request that immigration officials use another form of identification. Some countries allow a biometric waiver or a special identification card for individuals who cannot provide fingerprints.
In many families, adermatoglyphia is the only visible sign. However, some people also develop milia (small white bumps), skin blistering, or a reduced number of sweat glands. These features are not present in every case, but if you notice any of them, it is worth discussing with your dermatologist or geneticist.
dermatoglyphia follows an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, meaning that if one parent carries the mutated SMARCAD1 gene, each child has a 50 % chance of inheriting the condition. If you are concerned about passing it on, consider genetic counseling before having children. A counselor can explain the risks, discuss options such as pre‑implantation genetic diagnosis, and help you make informed reproductive choices.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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