Age estimation using postmortem computed tomography-based Hounsfield unit values of the palate and mandibular condyle and the Eichner classification

•Correlation among age and HU values of the palate and mandibular condyle was assessed.•The influence of occlusal support on age estimation was evaluated.•Age and HU values of the palate and mandibular condyle were shown to be correlated.•The Eichner classification was shown to be useful in age estimation.•HU values of the palate and mandibular condyle could help in age estimation. Age estimation is important in forensic investigations of unidentified human remains. This study assessed the correlation between age and Hounsfield unit (HU) values of the palate and mandibular condyle based on postmortem computed tomography (CT) and analyzed the influence of occlusal support in developing an age estimation method for Japanese individuals, including older adults. The sample consisted of a training dataset (357 cadavers) and a validation dataset (300 cadavers) that underwent postmortem CT. Three measurements were selected: the respective HU values of the palate and mandibular condyle and the Eichner classification. The correlation coefficients between age and HU values were also evaluated. Multiple stepwise regression analysis was performed to evaluate the significance of four parameters (sex, respective HU values of the palate and mandibular condyle, and the Eichner classification) for age estimation and to determine the best age estimation formula. In the validation tests, inaccuracy and bias were calculated for the groups aged ≥65 or