PALEORADIOLOGIA: ESTUDIO IMAGENOLOGICO DEL NIÑO DEL CERRO EL PLOMO

Abstract

Objectives: To describe the imagenologic findings of the «Niño del Cerro El Plomo» mummy. To check preservation status and look for clues of disease and make death related findings using a multisistemic evaluation and describe anthropometric features. Methods: A whole body multislice CT scan was done, followed by multiplanar reconstructions. We did an exhaustive analysis of internal organs. Results: The mummy is in a fetal position. The musculoskeletal system is well preserved. The age was estimated by the growth patterns of the teeth, it was 8 years old. The internal organs are distinguishible but with different degrees of shrinkage and volume loss. The best preserved organ is the central nervous system. The oropharinx, esophagus and stomach are partially filled with contents. The subcutaneous fat layer thickness, bone mineralization and development suggest normal nutritional status. There is no evidence of traumatic injuries related to death. Conclusions: Multislice CT help us to determinate the general conditions of the mummy and the state of the internal organs, avoiding damaging its integrity. We generated important anthropologic and paleopathologic data that wasn't available before.