Enlarged parietal foramina: a rare forensic autopsy finding

Int J Legal Med. 2016 May;130(3):855-7. doi: 10.1007/s00414-015-1239-6. Epub 2015 Aug 2.

Abstract

Enlarged parietal foramina (EPF) are a quite rare developmental defect of the parietal bone which has to be distinguished from the normal small parietal foramina. We report a forensic case of an individual found in an advanced state of putrefaction in his own house with an undetermined cause of death. No evidence of trauma was observed, and the toxicological exam was negative. The victim was a 40-year-old man with a history of epilepsy. The large biparietal foramina, a rare anatomical variation and unusual autopsy finding, were observed at autopsy. The recognition of anatomical variations is important to avoid false interpretations and conclusions and has a significant potential as an identity factor, thus contributing to positive identification.

Keywords: Catlin marks; Enlarged parietal foramina; Forensic anthropology; Parietal foramen.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Encephalocele / pathology*
  • Forensic Pathology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Parietal Bone / pathology

Supplementary concepts

  • Parietal Foramina