Accuracy in Dry Bone Diagnosis: a Comment on Palaeopathological Methods

摘要: The objectives of palaeopathological research include: (i) diagnosis specific diseases in archaeological human remains; (ii) analysis the impact various populations through time and space; (iii) clarification evolutionary interactions between humans disease. Basic to all these is need for accuracy diagnosing remains. Tests diagnostic made during workshops dry bone held annual meetings Paleopathology Association (PPA) 1989, 1990, 1991 1992 suggest important limitations that be considered development methods palaeopathology. Although conditions do not approximate those found most field or laboratory situations, tests indicate an overall 28.6 per cent disease recognition 42.9 correct more general categories factors are complex include knowledge experience observer. Another factor often substantial morphological overlap different diseases. In classificatory system used there seven disease, each which has recognizable, although non-specific, hallmarks specimens. A differential with possibilities mind rather than hundreds can a powerful tool palaeopathologist providing data comparable observers. This improvement agreement methodological implications protocol research. identification category recommended as part descriptive reports on