Summary

The cranio metric points Condylion,Gonion,Gnathion,and Menton are essential lreferences in mandibular analysis used in orthodontics, maxillofacial surgery, and morphometric studies. However, their clinical use shows significant variability in definitions and localization, both in two-dimensional and three-dimensional imaging, which affects diagnostic accuracy in conditions such as mandibular asymmetry. The objective of the study is to propose standardized definitions and abbreviations for the points Condylion, Gonion, Gnathion, and Menton, integrating anatomical and clinical criteria to ensure consistent application in cranio-mandibular studies in vivo and through two-and three-dimensional imaging. A descriptive observational study was conducted in three stages. First, a narrative review revealed wide heterogeneity and a lack of terminological consensus. Based on this, preliminary consensus definitions were generated by four experts in anatomy and orthodontics. In the second stage, a single-blind survey was administered to members of the Chilean Orthodontic Society (SORTCH) and the Pan American Association of Anatomy (APA), who selected definitions from various sources and the proposed definitions. Finally, survey results and a systematic review of current clinical usage were integrated and contrasted with Anatomical Terminology (TA2) to develop the final proposal. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test (p < 0.05). A total of 103 responses were obtained (36 orthodontists, 67 anatomists). No significant association between groups was found for any of the evaluated terms. Preferences varied widely, with no clear trend toward classical definitions or consistency across diagnostic imaging modalities. The lack of intergroup congruence confirmed the need for standardization. An anatomical and operational definition is proposed for each point: Condylion, the most superior and central point of the mandibular condyle; Gonion, the midpoint of the contour of the mandibular angle; Gnathion, the point at the anteroinferior margin of the mandibular symphysis; and Menton as its homolog in the soft tissues (skin). The proposed definitions provide clear and clinically applicable anatomical criteria, promoting coherence among anatomy, orthodontics, and imaging, and thereby contributing to a future update of anatomical and clinical terminology.

KEY WORDS: Condylion; Gonion; Gnathion; Menton; Terminology; Mandibular asymmetry.

How to cite this article

AGURTO-SANHUEZA, P.; SANDOVAL-VIDAL, P.; DEL SOL, M. & OTTONE, N. E. Proposal for standardized terminology and defining criteria for craniometric points used in the diagnosis of mandibular asymmetry (Condylion, Gonion, Gnathion, and Menton). Int. J. Morphol., 44(4):1481-1491, 2026.