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Updated: Jul 16, 2026
07:56
Scanning Skeletal Remains for Bone Mineral Density in Forensic Contexts
Published on: January 29, 2018
Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis in ancient clergymen
J J Verlaan1, F C Oner, G J R Maat
1Department of Orthopaedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands. jj.verlaan@wxs.nl
Summary
Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) was found in 40.4% of adult remains from a 275-1795 CE Dutch abbey. This suggests a monastic lifestyle may predispose individuals to DISH at younger ages.
Area of Science:
- Paleopathology
- Rheumatology
- Anthropology
Background:
- Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a common systemic disorder primarily affecting the elderly.
- Its etiology remains unknown, though associations with obesity and diabetes mellitus are noted.
- DISH can cause significant musculoskeletal impairment and spinal instability.
Observation:
- A study examined 51 human remains from 275-1795 CE in Maastricht, Netherlands.
- Individuals were assessed for spinal ossification and peripheral enthesopathies, key indicators of DISH.
- Seventeen adult individuals (40.4%) were diagnosed with DISH, with a mean age of 49.5 years.
Findings:
- DISH was prevalent in this population, presumed to be clergymen and high-ranking citizens.
- The condition was observed in a significant number of individuals at a relatively young age.
- Advanced DISH led to extensive ossification and ankylosis in some cases.
Implications:
- The findings suggest a potential link between a monastic lifestyle and DISH development.
- DISH can be a seriously incapacitating disorder, especially in advanced stages.
- Further research into obesity and diabetes mellitus as co-factors is warranted given current demographic trends.
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