Conformational variations of the medial epicondyle of the humerus: A case study of fusion anomaly on dry bones.

The estimation of a biological profile in biological anthropology is a central point in the study of human remains. To specify this profile, the observation of variations, and pathologies on the skeleton is a tool that makes an individual unique. In this research, the focus was on the distal part of the humerus. Through the study of five individuals from an osteo-archaeological collection, conformational anomalies of the medial epicondyle of the humerus were highlighted. The aim is to describe them and to propose an etiology of appearance. For this purpose, observation of the rest of the skeleton was carried out, in order to search for the presence of other variations, in particular anomalies of fusion of secondary ossification centers. Overall, a non-fusion of the medial epicondyle of the humerus, two fused medial micro-epicondyles and two supplementary fusions were observed. These are very rare anomalies, with an estimated prevalence of 0.7%. Conformational abnormalities of this area can lead to pain. Therefore, medical imaging for diagnostic purposes may be available: useful data for antemortem documentation in case of a disturbing disappearance. Following the study of the entire skeleton, a common etiology for these different conformations cannot be proposed. However, two categories of etiologies can be proposed: a congenital anomaly and a developmental anomaly with an environmental influence (mechanical or deficiency). The new knowledge of this area will enrich the use of individualization factors, especially in the context of forensic anthropology.