The Radiologist in the Crypt

Although osteological analysis seemed more sensitive in identifying infectious and neoplastic lesions, radiological analysis often provided a clearer illustration of the extent of these conditions, especially when the lesion involved a large area (eg, osteoporosis or Paget disease). Radiological analysis suggested that, as they age, men accumulate skeletal lesions more rapidly than women. Using bioarchaeological data, our study suggests the potential that radiological analysis might have in the establishment of general baseline levels of ill health in both past and present populations.