Is differential diagnosis attainable in disarticulated pathological bone remains? A case-study from a late 19th/early 20th century necropolis from Juncal (Porto de Mós, Portugal)

摘要

Differential diagnosis is a fundamental step in every palaeopathological study. It is achallenging exercise since many intrinsic and extrinsic factors may negatively impact theaccurate interpretation of bone changes in human skeletal remains. Among these, thecompleteness and preservation of skeletal elements plays a significant role. This study aims toexplore the limits of differential diagnosis in the analysis of disarticulated, fragmented bones.The sample consists of eleven adult long-bone fragments with noticeable changes. Theremains were identified in a dis-articulated skeletal assemblage from the former necropolis ofJuncal (Porto de Mós, Portugal), which probably closed in the late 19th century/early 20thcentury. They were analysed visually and with X-radiography, and the changes carefullydescribed prior to differential diagnosis. Five bones presented signs of healed bone traumaand one showed features compatible with leg amputation. Periosteal reactions were observedin several bones, one of them resembling changes consistent with an overlying skin ulcer.Two bone specimens were identified as belonging to the same individual due to the matchingbone changes. Despite the incomplete remains, a broader diagnosis was possible for mostcases, which facilitated a discussion of health, medical and social care among the inhabitantsof the region.