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A pathological Neandertal thumb phalanx from Moula-Guercy (France)
Silvana Condemi1, Michel Panuel1, Kathia Chaumoitre1
1UMR 7268 ADES, Aix-Marseille Université/EFS/CNRS, Faculté de Médecine - La Timone, 27 Bd Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille Cedex 05, France.
International Journal of Paleopathology
|June 24, 2023
Summary
This study identifies osteoarthritis in a Neandertal thumb bone, suggesting potential genetic factors and hand use behaviors contributed to the condition in ancient humans.
Area of Science:
- Paleoanthropology
- Paleopathology
- Neandertal Studies
Background:
- Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease with complex etiologies.
- Neandertals are known to have had genetic predispositions for certain conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze a pathological Neandertal first pollical proximal phalanx (I2-104) from Baume de Moula-Guercy.
- To evaluate potential causes of the observed pathology in the Neandertal specimen.
Main Methods:
- Macroscopic examination of external bone features.
- Computed Tomography (CT) imaging for detailed analysis.
Main Results:
- Asymmetric eburnation and osteophyte formation on the phalanx are indicative of osteoarthritis.
- Absence of periosteal bone reaction on CT scans supports an OA diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- The Neandertal phalanx exhibits osteoarthritis, possibly linked to genetic factors and biomechanical stress from activities like knapping.
- This finding offers insights into Neandertal health and behavior, though definitive causes remain elusive.
