Review of the Histological Method for Determining Age at Death in Human Skeletons

Authors

  • Christopher G. Neill

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15173/nexus.v3i1.110

Abstract

The histological method for determining the age at death of adult human skeletons is critically reviewed and standardizations are suggested. The accuracy of the method varies with the technique applied but is generally more accurate than morphologic and morphometric methods. A S.E.E. of 2.55 years was obtained by Singh and Gunbewrg (1970) using the mandible. Kerley (1965) obtained a S.E.E. of 5.27 years and Thompson (1978, 1979) obtained S.E.E. 's within 6.5 years using this "core technique". Disease must be screened out and specific equations are required for different "racial" groups. Sex difference does not significantly affect the age estimates. The histologic method is applicable to archaeology, forensic medicine, demography and palaeophysiology. A manual detailing the essentials of the histological method would be useful to future investigators.

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Published

1983-01-01

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Section

Articles