Respiratory diseases in the late middle ages

Respiratory diseases have beset humanity from the earliest times. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of respiratory diseases in the inhabitants of a large medieval city. We analyzed 110 skeletons, coming from 12 to 17th century of individuals of either gender. In order to assess pneumatisation of paranasal sinuses and nasal septum curvature, radiographs were performed in the PA projection. Nasal septum deviation was found in 50% of individuals, asymmetry of the frontal sinuses and their aplasia in 11% of individuals. There was no significant relationship between the curvature of the nasal septum and frontal sinus aplasia. One case of tuberculosis and one case of periradicular abscess causing perforation of the maxillary sinus were noted. Developmental variation of the sternum was present in two individuals. In another two individuals, rib fractures with bone union were observed.Analysis of the presence of respiratory disease in bone material is particularly difficult, but the use of modern methods: X-rays, CT scans and endoscopy significantly extends the capability to unravel the underlying causes of bygone diseases.

► We evaluated the presence of respiratory diseases in the late middle ages.
► The assessments of sinuses and nasal septum curvature were made using radiographs.
► Nasal septum deviation was found in 50% of individuals.
► A case of tuberculosis and a case of periradicular were noted.
► The use of modern radiological methods extends the unraveling capabilities of bygone diseases.