Tissue identification and histologic study of six lung specimens from Egyptian mummies

Datos Bibliográficos

ID8315792
AutoresRoxie Walker (University of California, San Francisco), Franz Parsche (Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München), Morris Bierbrier, M L Bierbrier (British Museum), James H Mckerrow (0000-0002-5152-4627, University of California, San Francisco)
Año1987
Volumen72
Número1
Páginas43-48
Fecha de publicación1987-01-01
Peer ReviewedSí
Open AccessSí
TipoARTICLE
RevistaAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology (JOURNAL)
Identificadores de la revistaISSN: 0002-9483 • E-ISSN: 1096-8644
EditorialWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1002/ajpa.1330720106
PMID3548413
OpenAlexW1991308164
IdiomaEN
Citas recibidas8
Referencias citadas5

Twenty‐eight specimens obtained either from organ bundles in the body cavities of intact mummies, from damaged mummies, or from isolated canopic jars were examined for tissue identification and histopathologic study. The methods of rehydration and fixation were optimized by application to 40 dehydrated modern samples before studies of mummified tissue were undertaken. The tissue of origin could be definitely identified in 24 of the 28 specimens. Even small fragments obtained from isolated canopic jars proved suitable for histologic study. Six lung specimens were selected for more detailed study. All six showed focal deposition of anthracotic pigment. Electron diffraction and electron microprobe analysis of one of the small, polarizable crystals associated with the anthracosis indicated a mineral content of silica, aluminum, and iron. Two specimens showed focal areas of calcification consistent with old mycobacterial disease. Other histopathologic findings included evidence of pulmonary edema, emphysema, and pneumonia

Biology · Calcification · Electron microprobe · Lung · Mineralogy · Pathology · Anatomy · Chemistry · Forensic Anthropology and Bioarchaeology Studies · Forensic Entomology and Diptera Studies · Medicine · Paleopathology and ancient diseases · Histology