Frank’s Sign: An Indicator for Premature Aging?

Abstract

Frank's sign (diagonal ear lobe crease) is a dermatological marker on the ear which extends from the tragus to the rear edge of the auricle. A positive correlation of Frank's sign with atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease is well known [1]. Recently, it has been shown to be associated with premature aging and loss of dermal and vascular elastic fibres [2]. Various studies have also shown an increase in the carotid Intimal Medial Thickness (IMT) and loss of carotid artery elasticity, with increasing age [3,4]. Raised carotid IMT for age indicates increased vascular age and premature aging [4].

Unified Anatomical Explanation of Diagonal Earlobe Creases, Preauricular Creases, and Paired Creases of the Helix

“…DELC was also associated with decreased cognitive function which, as above, might be explained by the increasing prevalence of DELC and cognitive decline as we age [22]. Given that DELC was reported in younger adults with CAD, premature aging was then implied as an explanation --increased vascular age in the presence of DELC and loss of dermal and vascular elastic fibers [23]. DELC is also associated with increased and premature telomere shortening leading to an accelerated aging process among Japanese patients with metabolic syndromes when compared with patients with metabolic syndrome without DELC [24].…”