Identification of decedents by restoring mummified fingerprints: Forensic dermatology in the investigation of mummy dermatoglyphics.

Fingerprints are created by elevations and depressions on the fingertip pads. Each person has their own unique fingerprints, which can be used in the identification of that individual when alive, during the immediate postmortem period, or even after the digits have become mummified. Mummification can occur naturally; it can be partial (such as localized to only the hands and feet), extensive, or complete.