Differential diagnosis of calcified nodules from a medieval Székely woman in Transylvania

ConclusionsDifferential diagnosis determined the calcified nodules to be consistent with calcified tumors, and most consistent with a calcified leiomyoma with cystic degeneration, potentially uterine.SignificanceThe identification of the calcified nodules as most consistent with calcified uterine leiomyomas adds to the paucity of paleopathological literature on calcified leiomyomas and calcified tumors more broadly. It also allows for an important discussion of the health of women in medieval Transylvania.LimitationsInterpretation would be aided if a more precise origination within the body was known. Careful excavation and improved recognition of organic objects is necessary for a more definite diagnosis.Suggestions for further researchSoft tissue calcifications are a common process in a wide variety of diseases and can arise in all areas of the body. Pathological calcifications are relatively common in modern contexts, but remain rare in paleopathological literature.

Source: International Journal of Paleopathology - January 9, 2020 Category: Pathology Source Type: research