Reproduction
Object numberRCSOM/A 40.14
Scientific nameHomo sapiens
CollectionOdontological
CategoryDry preparations
Object nameSkull, Alveolar bone loss, Jaw, Edentulous, Un-mounted dry bone
DescriptionEdentulous skull of a female, Punjabi, age estimated at 60 years, showing alveolar bone loss from an edentulous maxilla.
The closing of the sutures, large styloid process, endocranial features and the edentulous state all suggest an age in excess of 45, possibly around 60. The expanded right middle nasal concha may suggest conch bullosa, a normal variant. There are two button osteomas on the left parietal and occipital. There is some pitting and changes to the posterior occipital condyles suggesting possible osteo-arthritis. There is a medium sized ossicle along the right frontal suture. The skull has been sawn through with numerous hesitation marks evident on the cranial vault. The resulting prying may have caused the damage to the right temporal and right frontal and resulted in damage to the endocranial surface. Maxilla is edentulous with complete remodelling into a sharp crest of alveolar bone. Mandible is edentulous with complete remodelling with a crest of bone along the anterior margin and flattening and thinning in the molar area. Changes to the condylar heads are suggestive of possible osteo-arthritis in the temporo-mandibular joint, further evidenced by damage caused by pitting on the anterior area of the left temporal fossa.
presented
Physical Location
LocationNot on public display: contact museum for access conditions
Physical Information
Physical descriptionDry
