ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Published Online: 1 November 1987
Page Count: 10

Comparative Radiographic Study of Human and Animal Long Bone Patterns
Glassman, DM
Assistant professor, Southwest Texas State University, TX

Chilvarquer, I
Visiting professor, University of Texas Health Science Center, TX

Cottone, JA
Professor and head, Section on Forensic Odontology, Department of Dental Diagnostic Science, University of Texas Health Science Center, TX

Katz, JO
Resident, University of Texas Health Science Center, TX

Prihoda, TJ
Assistant professor, University of Texas Health Science Center, TX

(Received 5 January 1987; accepted 13 April 1987)

Abstract

The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that certain radiographic features can be found to distinguish between human and animal long bone fragments, and therefore would be useful as an adjunct in forensic science identification. Using proposed radiographic criteria, 13 archeologists and 12 dentists were asked to identify 20 radiographic samples as representing human or animal bone. Results showed that archeologists correctly identified 86.8% of the samples, and dentists correctly identified 81.9%. Based on the results of this study, it was concluded that radiographic interpretation of long bone fragments may be a useful aid in a forensic science investigation of human and animal remains.

Keywords:
physical anthropology, X-ray analyses, musculo-skeletal system, human identification

Paper ID: JFS11222J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS11222J
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