Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 28, 2025
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Systematic Assessment of Mammalian Skull Specimens for Dental and Temporomandibular Joint Pathology
Published on: August 22, 2022
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Skull joints assessed via CT for age estimation-a systematic review
Fernanda Macedo1, Maria Eduarda Stefanel1, Adriano Sakurada1
1Division of Forensic Dentistry, Faculdade São Leopoldo Mandic, Campinas, SP, 13045755, Brazil.
Dento Maxillo Facial Radiology
|February 10, 2025
Summary
The spheno-occipital joint is reliable for age estimation in adolescents and young adults via computed tomography (CT). Cranial sutures are not recommended as sole age markers due to accuracy issues.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Anthropology
- Radiology
- Human Osteology
Background:
- Accurate age estimation is crucial in forensic science.
- Skull joints, particularly cranial sutures and the spheno-occipital synchondrosis, have been investigated as potential age indicators.
- Computed tomography (CT) offers detailed visualization of these anatomical structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and evaluate the reliability of skull joints as biological markers for age estimation using CT.
- To synthesize evidence regarding the efficacy of the spheno-occipital joint and cranial sutures in age determination.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted across five databases following PRISMA guidelines.
- Eligible studies were observational, cross-sectional research utilizing CT to assess skull joints for age estimation.
- Risk of bias was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Tools.
Main Results:
- Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria, focusing on the spheno-occipital joint (53.33%) and cranial sutures (46.66%).
- Multi-slice CT with thin slices (<1mm) was the predominant imaging technique.
- The spheno-occipital joint showed promise for age estimation, though limitations were noted. Cranial sutures demonstrated unsatisfactory accuracy and high error risks, leading to discouragement for their sole use.
Conclusions:
- The spheno-occipital joint is a supported forensic tool for age estimation in adolescents and young adults, acknowledging fusion age variability.
- Cranial sutures are not recommended as standalone age estimation markers due to poor accuracy and significant error potential.
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