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Extensive pulmonary haemorrhage in an Egyptian mummy
A G Nerlich1, F Parsche, I Wiest
1Pathologisches Institut der Universität München, Germany.
Abstract:
We report on the morphological and trace element findings of several internal organs from an Egyptian mummy approximately dating from the year 950 B.C. according to 14C-analysis. By use of a multidisciplinary approach we succeeded in discovering evidence for severe and presumably recurrent pulmonary bleeding during life. This was suggested by the finding of massive haemosiderin deposits in the lung and a selectively and markedly elevated level of iron in trace element analysis of the lung tissue. Furthermore, we observed an enhanced deposition of birefringent particles in the lung tissue, without significant fibrosis. The histological analysis of liver, stomach and intestine confirmed the macroscopic organ diagnoses without evidence of any major pathological processes. In addition, analysis for various drugs revealed a significant deposition of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), nicotine and cocaine in several organs of the mummy. The concentration profiles additionally provide evidence for a preferential inhalation of THC, while nicotine and cocaine containing drugs seem to have been consumed orally.
Insights
Analysis of an ancient Egyptian mummy revealed severe lung bleeding and the presence of drugs like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), nicotine, and cocaine. These findings suggest specific consumption methods, with THC inhaled and others ingested.
Area of Science:
- Paleopathology
- Archaeological Science
- Toxicology
Background:
- Ancient Egyptian mummies offer unique insights into past health and lifestyle.
- Multidisciplinary analysis is crucial for interpreting complex archaeological findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the morphological and trace element composition of internal organs from an Egyptian mummy.
- To identify evidence of disease and substance use in ancient Egypt.
Main Methods:
- Radiocarbon dating (14C-analysis) for chronological assessment.
- Morphological and histological examination of internal organs.
- Trace element analysis, particularly for iron.
- Drug analysis to detect specific compounds.
Main Results:
- Evidence of severe, recurrent pulmonary bleeding indicated by haemosiderin deposits and elevated lung iron levels.
- Presence of birefringent particles in lung tissue without significant fibrosis.
- Detection of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), nicotine, and cocaine in various organs.
- Concentration profiles suggest preferential inhalation of THC and oral consumption of nicotine and cocaine.
Conclusions:
- The mummy suffered from significant pulmonary hemorrhage during life.
- Ancient Egyptians utilized substances including cannabis, tobacco, and cocaine.
- Drug administration methods varied, with inhalation for THC and ingestion for others.