A probable case of congenital syphilis from pre-Columbian Austria

Anthropol Anz. 2015;72(4):451-72. doi: 10.1127/anthranz/2015/0504. Epub 2015 Sep 30.

Abstract

This study examines the skeletal remains of a subadult from an archeological site in Austria. Radiocarbon dating and archeological attribution indicate that this individual is of pre-Columbian origin. Most of the skeleton was recovered, and only the teeth and the orbital roofs show changes. Dental defects such as the mulberry molar and a tapered, fang-like canine suggest a diagnosis of congenital syphilis. This is the first probable case of congenital syphilis from pre-Columbian Central Europe. Our findings contribute to the pre-Columbian theory, offering counter evidence to the assumption that syphilis was carried from Columbus' crew from the New to the Old World.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Historical Article

MeSH terms

  • Anthropology, Physical
  • Austria
  • Cemeteries
  • Child
  • Dental Enamel Hypoplasia
  • History, Medieval
  • Humans
  • Skull / pathology
  • Syphilis, Congenital* / diagnosis
  • Syphilis, Congenital* / history
  • Syphilis, Congenital* / pathology
  • Tooth / pathology