Contributions of pathological alterations to forensic anthropology interpretation

Abstract

Pathology plays a key role in various aspects of interpretation within forensic anthropology.  These contributions include observations of the effects of pathological conditions and using them to facilitate identification efforts.  In the context of the broader definition of pathology as “something abnormal” it forms the foundation of much of the logic, methodology and practice of forensic anthropology.  In fact, only unusual conditions not shared by many others can be utilized for positive identification.  Recovery efforts and evaluation of the evidence of foul play, as well as the estimation sex, age at death, ancestry, living stature, time since death and other important components depend upon recognition of normal and abnormal patterns.  The multifaceted contributions of pathology to the practice of forensic anthropology are firmly documented in casework applications