A Preliminary Study on the Repeatability of Facial Feature Variables Used in the Sasang Constitutional Diagnosis

체질진단에 활용되는 안면 특징 변수들의 반복성에 대한 예비 연구

Objectives Facial features can be utilized as an indicator of Korean medical diagnosis. They are often measured by using the diagnostic device for an objective diagnosis. Accordingly, it is necessary to verify the reliability of the features which are obtained from the device for the accurate diagnosis. In this study, we attempt to evaluate the repeatability of facial feature variables using the Sasang Constitutional Analysis Tool(SCAT) for the Sasang Constitutional face diagnosis. Methods Facial pictures of two subjects were taken 24 times respectively for two days according to a standard guideline. In order to evaluate the repeatability, the coefficient of variation was calculated for the facial features extracted from frontal and profile images. Results The coefficient of variation was less than 10% in most of the facial features except the upper lip, trichion, and chins related features. Conclusions It was confirmed that the coefficient of variation was small in most of the features which enables the objective and reliable analysis of face. However, some features showed the low reliability because the location of facial landmarks related to them is ambiguous. In order to solve the problem, a clear basis for the location discussion is required.