In defence of the osteoma: The relevance of benign tumours in bioarchaeology and palaeo-oncology

Abstract

Currently, research focus in palaeo-oncology is dominated by malignant neoplasms, and this focus has led to an academic apathy towards benign tumours. The lack of interest in benign tumours is mainly due to the notion that they are commonplace occurrences with little clinical value. As a result, knowledge and understanding of benign tumours are lacking, and this has become a hindrance to the overall understanding of neoplastic disease in bioarchaeological contexts. It is the goal of this commentary to highlight the relevance of benign tumours and to encourage future research in this neglected area of palaeo-oncology.