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7553253 
Journal Article 
The paleopathology of the Krapina Neandertals 
Gardner, JC; Smith, FH 
2006 
0 
Periodicum Biologorum
ISSN: 0031-5362 
108 
4 
471-484 
WOS:000240923600009 
This study presents the first detailed description and analysis of skeletal pathologies in the Krapina hominid collection from the Husnjakovo rock shelter; located 40 kilometers north of Zagreb, Croatia. The Krapina sample, p although co-mingled and fragmentary, represents the best example of a population of Neandertals based on chronological, archaeological and biological data. It also represents the largest sample of Neandertal specimens known from a single locality. Generally, the majority of the bones present in the sample represent osteologically healthy individuals, although several exceptions are noted. Previously unrecognized subtle changes to cortical bone surface that are idiopathic in nature, non-articular musculoskeltal markers, and unusual pathologies arc reported, in addition to cranial and post-cranial trauma, non-union (or possible amputation) of an ulna, post-traumatic lesions, and degenerative joint disease. The frequency and types of pathologies present in this sample vary markedly in comparison to other populations. Therefore, in the treatment of the sample a a specific Neandertal population, this study of pathology patterns is informative it? increasing our understanding of Neandertal behavior and health.