To: xxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxx., Instructor
From: A. G., Student Anatomy & Physiology I
Re: The examination of human skeletal remains referred to as Case ##-####
Date: 02 December 2014

Introduction: On the 23rd day of October 2014 at approximately 8:45 a.m., Dr. Robert Routh presented human skeletal remains to the Anatomy & Physiology class. The remains were comprised of both coxal bones, right and left femur, skull, and remaining parts of the skeleton. Also a radiograph was given to the class which included the ulna and patella, dentures and the metacarpals. The class was given the instructions to estimate the individual’s sex, age, and also note and record evidence of trauma.
Information about the recovery was given to the class, subsequent care of the material was not given to the class.
Condition of Remains:
All significant observations related to the bony materials itself are limited to this section. The bones exhibit a slight acrid odor, and are slightly greasy to the touch. Pupa cases can be seen in a foramen found within the infratemporal fossa of the skull; also in the pubic symphysis ridges of the left coxal bone. Some plant materials, or soils are immediately apparent, and the right coxal bone demonstrates a substantially lighter color than the rest of the postcranial skeletal remains.
Summary:
Sex: Female
Age: 14-19
Trauma: Ante-mortem and Peri-mortem trauma present; no post-mortem trauma is readily apparent.
Sex:
Based on an examination of gross morphology of the innominate, the following female features are listed: wide obtuse sciatic notch, the presence of a ventral arch on the pubis, circular pelvic inlet, and a small acetabulum.
Measurements taken from the femur includes a length of 37 cm and a height of 141-1489 cm which gives an estimated height of 55.82 in. Which falls into the female range, indicates that the remains are those of a female.
Determination from skull morphology shows the following female features: a medium-long mastoid process, slender v-shaped mandible, thin occipital protuberance, and a slender supraorbital ridge.
Age:
Based on an examination of gross morphology of the skull, evidence shows prominent sutures, a small skull, and gender markings slim. In conclusion, the youngest age is 14 and the oldest age is less than 30. However, the majority of the age ranges fall into a narrower age range of 15-19. Postcranial measurements of the femur, skull, and innominate (pelvic bone), were taken in accordance with standard data collection techniques. This analysis indicated that the remains are those of a female. Standards for Data Collection (Buikstra and Ubelaker, 1994)
Evidence of Ante-mortem Trauma: Radiographs of the fourth metacarpal shows a healed fracture (Boxer’s fracture). A fractured ulna and patella from a possible fall or car wreck. The skeleton also shows a deviated septum from a possible blow to the nose, and a fracture near the xyphoid process of the sternum, possible blow to chest. Also, a defect from birth, an extra septum in the frontal sinus.
Evidence of Peri-mortem Trauma: Based on the broken hyoid bone and fractures nose the victim was possibly strangled and hit in the nose.
Possible Cause of Death: Strangulation; Death may be due to (1) asphyxia, (2) Cerebral anoxia or venous congestion, (3) combined asphyxia and venous congestion.
Remains:
Skeletal remains found buried in the woods.