First diagnosis of septic arthritis in a dinosaur

摘要: Identification and interpretation of pathologies in the fossil record allows for unique insights into life histories extinct organisms. However, rarity such finds limits not only sample size palaeopathologic studies, but also types analyses that may be performed. In this study, we present first occurrence a palaeopathology vertebrate from Mesozoic East Coast North America (Appalachia), pathologic ulna radius an indeterminate hadrosaur Navesink Formation (New Jersey). X-ray microtomography allowed both detailed more accurate diagnosis condition as well virtual conservation specimen. Based on extant archosaurian comparisons, was diagnosed with severe septic arthritis affecting proximal radius. Diagnosis based erosion joint highly reactive periosteal bone growth fusion elements. To best our knowledge, is recorded account dinosaurs. The severity pathology suggests animal suffered some time before death. Unfortunately, were found. Thus, extent to which spread other parts body unknown.