Histomorphometry based age estimation at death using femur bone: A narrative review

Abstract

© 2018 Japan Health Sciences University & Japan International Cultural Exchange Foundation. Background: In 1965, Kerley first studied and developed histomorphometry methods using the microstructure of bone tissue. After Kerley, many methods have been modified by several authors using several different types of bone, in particular, the femur bone has mostly been employed in histological age estimation. This is due to the fact that it is the strongest bone concerning resistance to taphonomic deterioration, even after prolonged internment; moreover, it is easily identifiable. Therefore, the authors have selected this review article for a brief history of histomorphometry age estimation using femur bone. Objective: In crime scenes with incomplete skeletons and fragmentary or degraded bone, it can be difficult to identify a biological profile. Method: Several methods have been developed to estimate the age at death in human remains. Conclusion: Histomorphometry methods have been used to estimate age at death based on quantitative observation and evaluation of microstructural changes in cortical bone.