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Palaeopathology Human and Animal Disease (P01173)

? Credit Points : 20 ? SCQF Level : 11 ? Acronym : HCA-P-P01173

Numerous pathological conditions, especially chronic, long lasting disease, affect the skeletons of both humans and animals. Identification and accurate diagnosis, however, begins with the recognition of post mortem, pseudopathological traits caused by taphonomic agents. Palaeopathological studies are more advanced in anthropology, where osteological symptoms of disease may usually be studied on largely complete skeletons of known age, sex and even social status. Animal remains showing pathological deformations tend to be scattered among the food refuse, thereby lacking the same physiological context. In addition, animal diseases often differ between species, making accurate diagnoses difficult. However, familiarity with the health condition of both ancient people and their livestock provides valuable information on both environment and society.

Entry Requirements

none

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Postgraduate (School of History and Classics), (School of History, Classics and Archaeology, Schedule E)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : Postgraduate

? Delivery Period : Semester 2 (Blocks 3-4)

? Contact Teaching Time : 2 hour(s) per week for 10 weeks

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course the student will have:
- A basic knowledge and understanding of disease processes within a framework of skeletal growth, development and remodelling.
- An ability to identify and record pathological lesions, using recognised standards
- A knowledge of the main conditions and diseases affecting the skeleton
- An understanding of the possibilities of, and limitations to, assessing the health status and lifestyle of individuals and populations from their human remains