A singular case of advanced caries sicca in a pre-Columbian skull from East Tennessee

ConclusionsBurial G unequivocally exhibits the pathognomonic reactive changes of caries sicca, radial scarring, and cavitating lesions.SignificanceThe Early Woodland date in combination with the advanced degree of pathognomonic reactive change is exceptional, and to date, without parallel in the pre-Columbian archaeological record of North America. Any case approaching the severity displayed here is invariably late prehistoric.LimitationsThe absence of postcrania does not permit assessment of frailty or synergism of secondary conditions.Suggestions for further researchMore comprehensive documentation of pre-Columbian treponemal cases is merited.

Source: International Journal of Paleopathology - January 24, 2019 Category: Pathology Source Type: research