Prevalence of Palmaris Longus Muscle Absence among the Hausa Ethnic Group in Northern Nigeria

Abstract

The prevalence of the palmaris longus (PL) muscle varies significantly among global populations, including within Nigeria. Understanding its absence in specific ethnic groups, such as the Hausa, provides insights into anatomical variation, population genetics, and evolutionary biology. This study investigated the frequency distribution of sex and age among participants, the prevalence of PL muscle absence, its distribution by limb and sex among individuals of Hausa ethnicity. A total of 300 Hausa participants (150 males and 150 females) were examined using standardized clinical tests. Data collected included age, sex, and presence or absence of the PL muscle in each forearm. Data was presented as frequencies and percentage and bar charts. The age group 18–22 years represented the highest proportion (37%), followed by 23–27 years (26.7%), 28–32 years (20.3%), 33–37 years (8.7%), and 38–42 years (7.3%). The overall prevalence of PL absence was 8.3% (25 participants). Unilateral absence was observed in 21 participants (12 on the right and 9 on the left), while bilateral absence was found in 5 individuals. Among males, PL absence was observed in 16 participants (5.33%) and in 9 females (3.00%). Bilateral absence was more prevalent in males (1.33%) compared to females (0.33%). This study establishes the prevalence of PL absence among the Hausa population as 8.3%, with notable differences in bilateral absence between sexes. This knowledge is vital in the planning of surgeries in the arm and muscles grafting with PL serving as donor.