A case of congenital multiple epiphyseal dysplasia from the Late Migration Period graveyard in Drnholec (Czech Republic).

OBJECTIVE

To contribute to differential diagnosis of multiple epiphyseal dysplasia (MED) in archeological and clinical contexts.

MATERIALS: A skeleton of a 30- to 45-year-old male (grave no. 806) from the Late Migration Period graveyard in Drnholec-Pod sýpkou (Czech Republic), radio-carbon dated to AD 492-530.

METHODS

Morphological and metric analyses.

RESULTS

Significant pathological changes were noted on ossa coxae and proximal ends of the femora, which appear similar to changes associated with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. X-ray examination made it possible to rule out pseudoachondroplasia, rickets and metabolic bone diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

The finding was evaluated as a probable case of congenital multiple epiphyseal dysplasia.

SIGNIFICANCE: This case will contribute to the construction of estimates of the occurrence of this disease in historical populations and can be instructive for diagnostics in current medical practice.

LIMITATIONS: The final diagnosis is limited by the lack of genetic analysis.

SUGGESTION FOR THE FUTURE RESEARCH: Further clarification leading to diagnosis will benefit from genetic analysis and evaluation of skeletal remains throughout Europe.