ISSN:
1824-310X
Keywords:
Homo erectus
;
Ceprano calvaria
;
sphenoidal sinus recess
;
brow ridge
;
depressed fracture
;
paleopathology
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract In March 1994, during excavation work for the construction of a motorway, a fragmented calvaria was discovered in the “Campo Grande” area near Ceprano, a town in southern Latium (Central Italy) about 55 miles from Rome. After reconstruction, the remain was recognized as belonging to aHomo erectus; it has been estimated that it goes back to the lowest middle Pleistocene. The calvaria exhibits two pathologic findings. The first is a congenital malformation of the sphenoidal sinus consisting in a deep, wide recess penetrating into the left greater wing as far as the sphenotemporal suture. The lesion was examined with the help of a cast whose features were compared with those described in some early and recent cases reported in the literature. The second finding is a healed, depressed fracture of the right brow ridge. The cause and mechanism of this lesion are discussed, and a mechanical approach has been used to provide information pertinent to the specific reason for the injury. The possibility that the hominid was butted by a large animal appears to be the most likely cause of the fracture.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF02438068
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