Multiple osteomata from medieval Tuscany, Italy (ca. 10th-12th AD)

Abstract

Objective: To explore the possible etiology of multiple osteomata on a skull and long bones from an individual from a medieval site in Tuscany, Italy.

Materials: Human skeletal remains dating to the 10^th-12^th century AD from the parish church of S. Pietro in Pava, in the province of Siena (Tuscany, Central Italy).

Methods: Macroscopic and imaging analyses (Cone Beam Computed Tomography).

Results: Nine round-shaped new bone formations are observed on a female individual aged 40-50 years. The lesions have a smooth surface and range from 2.2-6 mm in diameter.

Conclusions: Cone Beam Computed Tomography confirmed that the lesions were composed of compact bone. Macroscopic and radiological features suggest the presence of nonsyndromic multiple osteomata.

Significance: Single cranial osteomata are commonly observed in osteoarchaeological remains, but multiple osteomata are rare and might assist in our understanding of neoplastic conditions in the past.

Limitations: The lack of soft tissues prevents the diagnosis of complex disorders, such as the Gardner syndrome, which is characterised by multiple osteomata and polyposis of the colon.

Suggestions for further research: Careful investigation and reporting of all neoplastic lesions in ancient human remains in order to increase our knowledge about the etiology in past human populations.

Keywords: Button lesions; Cone beam computed tomography; Gardner syndrome; Nonsyndromic osteomata.