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Comparative radiographic study of human and animal long bone patterns
I Chilvarquer1, J O Katz, D M Glassman
1Department of Dental Diagnostic Science, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio.
Journal of Forensic Sciences
|November 1, 1987
Summary
Radiographic analysis can help distinguish human from animal long bone fragments in forensic science. Archeologists and dentists achieved high accuracy rates, suggesting this method aids in identifying remains.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Anthropology
- Radiology
- Osteology
Background:
- Distinguishing human from animal bone fragments is crucial in forensic investigations.
- Radiographic analysis offers a potential method for differentiating bone origins.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of radiographic criteria in distinguishing human from animal long bone fragments.
- To assess the utility of radiographic interpretation as an adjunct in forensic identification.
Main Methods:
- 13 archeologists and 12 dentists evaluated 20 radiographic samples.
- Participants used proposed radiographic criteria to identify bone fragments as human or animal.
Main Results:
- Archeologists correctly identified 86.8% of bone samples.
- Dentists achieved an 81.9% accuracy rate in identifying bone samples.
- Radiographic interpretation demonstrated significant accuracy in differentiating human and animal remains.
Conclusions:
- Radiographic interpretation of long bone fragments is a valuable tool for forensic science.
- This method can assist investigators in identifying human versus animal remains.
- The study supports the use of radiographic analysis as an adjunct in forensic investigations.