Mummified remains in the field of forensics. The comparison of a 19th century case report with current cases

Mummified remains in the field of forensics. The comparison of a 19th century case report with current cases

Authors

  • Marta Licata Centre of Research in Osteoarchaeology and Paleopathology, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, O. Rossi, 9, 21100 Varese, Italy
  • Omar Larentis Centre of Research in Osteoarchaeology and Paleopathology, Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, O. Rossi, 9, 21100 Varese, Italy
  • Francesco Ventura
  • Rosagemma Ciliberti Università di Genova

Keywords:

natural mummification, mummification in forensic field, multidisciplinary approach, entomology, 19th century forensic investigations

Abstract

From the medical report published in the “Rivista Italiana di Scienze Naturali” in 1890 about a forensic examination conducted on two mummified fetuses, we discuss the interdisciplinary approach in forensic field. Already in this nineteenth-century case, we note how the multidisciplinary approach was able to answer certain questions. During the forensic investigation of a mummified body, a correct analysis allows to determine the era of death and causes of the mummification process, the manner in which the person died, whether it is related to homicide, suicide or a case of corpse concealment. The dialogue between the different disciplines (forensic pathology, anthropology, radiology, histology, entomology, archeology, psychiatry, etc.) is fundamental today as it was in the past in order to solve cases in the criminological field. We hope that the collaboration between the different sciences can grow again in the future.

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Published

01-08-2019

Issue

Section

Case study: Paleopathology

How to Cite

1.
Licata M, Larentis O, Ventura F, Ciliberti R. Mummified remains in the field of forensics. The comparison of a 19th century case report with current cases. Med Histor [Internet]. 2019 Aug. 1 [cited 2025 Mar. 15];3(2):99-104. Available from: https://mattioli1885journals.com/index.php/MedHistor/article/view/8619

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