The death of Alexander the Great--a spinal twist of fate

J Hist Neurosci. 2004 Jun;13(2):138-42. doi: 10.1080/0964704049052157.

Abstract

Alexander the Great died in 323 B.C. from an unknown cause. Physical depictions of this historical figure reveal the likelihood of a cervical scoliotic deformity. This is substantiated with the medical history and is correlated with his untimely death. For the first time, it is concluded that Alexander's death may have ensued from the sequelae of congenital scoliotic syndrome.

Publication types

  • Biography
  • Historical Article
  • Portrait

MeSH terms

  • Abnormalities, Multiple / history*
  • Adult
  • Cervical Vertebrae / abnormalities*
  • Famous Persons*
  • Greece, Ancient
  • History, Ancient
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Ophthalmoplegia / history*
  • Scoliosis / history*
  • Syndrome

Personal name as subject

  • None Alexander the Great