The need for a better means of recording pathological bone proliferation in joint areas

Osteological materials studied by anthropologists frequently involve abnormal bone accmulation in joint regions, a condition frequently described as “arthritic.” In describing such materials it is suggested that terms implying diagnosis be avoided and a greater emphasis be given to the physical description of specimens. This is advocated in part because of current confusion in pathological nomenclature pertaining to this area and in part because diagnosis of bone pathologies frequently requires technical facilities beyond the scope of initial anthropological review. A more thorough descriptive analysis of such conditions than heretofore customary is suggested and a proposal is included for a terminology which describes in gross details the proliferative conditions commonly encountered, ranging from a simple “lipping” to complete ankylosis with advanced accumulation of bone tissue external to the normal articular surfaces.