Reproduction
Object numberRCSHC/P 719
Scientific nameHomo sapiens
CollectionHunterian
CategoryDry preparations
DescriptionA calvaria showing a syphilitic lesion on the frontal bone as a result of a chronic infection of the disease.
The infection within the diploe has spread to both the external and internal tables of the bone, destroying the bone surfaces and producing several small perforations of the skull.
Production date Estimated 1760 - Estimated 1793
Preparator
Owner/user
presented
Physical Location
LocationNot on public display: contact museum for access conditions
Physical Information
Physical descriptionDry preparation of bone un-mounted.
Dimensions
whole weight: 318 g
Bibliography
SourceBarnes & Thomas 2005
NotesAnalysis of a sample taken from this specimen using PCR techniques failed to identify any remaining evidence of Treponema pallidum, the bacterium responsible for syphilis.
Vol. 2, page 56.
TranscriptA calvaria showing the results of syphilitic disease. In the frontal region there is an irregularly rounded, carious area, 1 ½ inches in diameter. The central part is deeply ulcerated and perforated in several places. The periphery of the area is marked out by a sinuous groove, probably indicating that the carious bone has suffered necrosis. Almost the whole of the remaining surface of the frontal bone is rendered uneven by shallow depressions, indicating the position of carious areas which have become healed over with compact bone. Several depressions of a similar kind are present in the left parietal bone.
SourceTurk 1995
Pages 146-8.
NotesA description of the calvaria of the Hunterian collection with caries sicca.
SourceClift 1830 Part 1
NotesCatalogue number is 482.
TranscriptA similar specimen, in which the os frontis is principally affected. "Supposed to be venereal."
