Paleopathology

Paleopathology (also known as bioarchaeology) is the study of ancient diseases. It involves the examination of skeletal remains and mummified tissue in order to study the history of disease. Paleopathologists use a variety of techniques taken from many disciplines to help in the diagnosis and interpretation of the pathological conditions they find.

History

Paleopathology was first recognized as a scientific discipline in the early 20th century. However, the interest in ancient disease and its impact on human populations has been around for much longer. The first recorded case of possible paleopathology was in 1825, by the British archaeologist Thomas Bateman, who found a skeleton which he concluded had suffered from arthritis.

Techniques

Paleopathologists use a variety of techniques to study ancient diseases. These include the examination of skeletal remains, using techniques such as radiography and microscopy. They also use genetic techniques to study ancient DNA, and use the knowledge of modern diseases to help interpret the pathological conditions they find.

Notable findings

There have been many notable findings in paleopathology. For example, in 2010, a team of scientists from the University of Leicester discovered what they believe is the earliest known case of tuberculosis in a 500,000 year old human ancestor. Other notable findings include the discovery of cancer in a 1.7 million year old hominid fossil, and the identification of a 5300 year old mummy known as the Iceman, who was found to have been suffering from parasitic infections and atherosclerosis.

See also

• Bioarchaeology
• Forensic anthropology
• Paleoepidemiology
• Paleopathology Association

References

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