The role of toxicological analyses in anthropology: a case report on lead intoxication

The palaeopathological analysis of ancient populations is of crucial importance in archaeology: however, several bone lesions are not specific for a unique disease, and usually the anthropologist must describe a range of hypotheses, in the perspective of a differential diagnosis. Nevertheless, advanced laboratory tests may provide useful information for reaching a reliable diagnosis, and therefore a more precise description of the history of an individual or of a population. This study presents the case of a cranium of an adult female showing cribra orbitalia on the right orbital roof. In addition, locks of hair were still preserved. Toxicological analyses were carried out on a bone sample and on a lock of hair, and the results were consistent with the hypothesis of chronic intoxication by lead. This case shows that toxicological analyses may provide fundamental information for a more precise diagnosis of archaeological cases. Advanced laboratory analyses proved to be a crucial tool for a correct assessment of archaeological bone samples, especially if one considers that most of the pathological signs are aspecific and therefore provide only limited information concerning the health conditions of past populations.