Dolichocephalic

Dolichocephalic refers to a condition where the head is longer than it is wide. It is a term used in Anthropology, Teratology, and Archaeology to describe different aspects of the skull and head shape.

Definition

The term "Dolichocephalic" is derived from the Ancient Greek words "dolikhos" meaning long and "kephale" meaning head. It is used to describe a head that is longer than it is wide, with a cephalic index (the ratio of the maximum width of the head multiplied by 100 divided by its maximum length) of less than 75.

Anthropological Use

In Anthropology, the term is used to describe one of the three main categories of human skull shapes, the other two being Brachycephalic (short and broad) and Mesocephalic (intermediate length and breadth). Dolichocephalic skulls were often associated with certain ethnic groups, such as the Indigenous Australians and certain tribes of North Africa.

Teratological Use

In Teratology, or the study of abnormalities of physiological development, Dolichocephaly is seen as a potential symptom of certain medical conditions. For example, it is one of the physical characteristics often associated with Marfan Syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects the body's connective tissue.

Archaeological Use

In Archaeology, Dolichocephalic skulls are often found in burial sites and can provide information about the ancestry and ethnic origins of ancient civilizations. For example, the Ancient Egyptians were often described as Dolichocephalic based on the examination of mummies and artistic depictions.

See Also

• Cephalic index
• Craniosynostosis
• Scaphocephaly
• Plagiocephaly

References

Dolichocephalic Resources
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