1. Bone Histology for age at death estimation
ANA 328
2006/09/04

2. Introduction Bone: Specialized connective tissue
Osteoclasts & osteoblasts
Change throughout life
Continuous modelling & remodelling
Structures
Age-dependent/correlation

3. Factors: Influence bone remodelling and techniques
Disease
Nutritional or hormonal
Socio-economic status
Sampling location
Mechanical stress

4. Histological techniques
Based on:
Bone: living & dynamic
Remodelling - continuous
Kerley (1965), Ahlqvist & Damsten (1969), Singh and Gunberg (1970), Ericksen (1991), Maat et al (2006)

5. Variables used:
Osteons

6. Average number of lamellae per osteon

7. Average Haversian canal diameter per osteon

8. Number of Non-haversian canals

9. Number of Osteon fragments

10. Number of Resorption spaces

11. Percentage: osteonal, unremodelled &
fragmental

12. Advantages Small piece of bone required Used:
Burnt remains
Fragmented remains
Archaeological remains
Forensic remains
Accurate method of age estimation

13. Disadvantages Experience required/specialized equipment
Easily affected:
Nutrition
Fungus
Pathology
Sample location
Population specific
Make bone slide