The problem of aging human remains and living individuals: a review

Forensic Sci Int. 2009 Dec 15;193(1-3):1-13. doi: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2009.09.008. Epub 2009 Oct 29.

Abstract

Forensic anthropology is affected by the unavoidable limits concerning difficulties in standardization of methods and procedures; age estimation is one of the main tasks of forensic anthropology and odontology, both on the dead and the living: literature has shown several methods of age estimation, and although they may be thought of as equivalent, every procedure has its limits, mean error, practical situation and age range where it gives the best results; the lack of standardization and consensus concerning which method can be used, as well as the lack of a practical approach in different cases is the main limit in a correct age estimation process. This review aims at exposing the experience of the authors working in the FASE (Forensic Anthropology Society of Europe) subsection of IALM (International Academy of Legal Medicine) in the field of age estimation both on the dead and the living, at highlighting advantages and limits of each method, and suggesting practical solutions concerning the age estimation process for adults and subadults, dead and living, and pedopornographic material.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age Determination by Skeleton / methods*
  • Age Determination by Teeth / methods*
  • Bone Development
  • Bone and Bones / anatomy & histology
  • Bone and Bones / diagnostic imaging
  • Burns / pathology
  • Erotica
  • Fetus / anatomy & histology
  • Forensic Anthropology / methods*
  • Forensic Dentistry / methods*
  • Humans
  • Osteogenesis
  • Physical Examination
  • Postmortem Changes
  • Radiation Dosage
  • Tooth / anatomy & histology
  • Tooth / growth & development