An isotopic case study of individuals with syphilis from the pathological-anatomical reference collection of the national museum in Prague (Czech Republic, 19th century A.D.)

ConclusionsEither diets prescribed by physicians to syphilitic patients or nutritional stress caused by cyclic appetite disturbance due to the disease itself or the administered medical treatment appeared to be possible explanations of the observed isotopic pattern. Overall, the response of the two isotopic proxies could argue for relatively limited nutritional restrictions.SignificanceThis is the first study examining bone collagen isotopic response to syphilis based on clinically documented human skeletal materials.LimitationsThe sample sizes are relatively small and cautiousness must be taken regarding the interpretations of the data.Suggestions for further researchCompound-specific stable isotope investigations and analysis of mercury content could be helpful to better understand the observed isotopic effects.
Source: International Journal of Paleopathology - Category: Pathology Source Type: research