The case of the unique systemic pathology in a 14th century woman from the excavations of the Natukhaevskoe 5 cemetery

This paper describes a rare systemic pathology identified during the excavations of the medieval Natukhaevskoe 5 cemetery conducted in 2013-2014 (Novorossiysk, Krasnodar region). Grave 45 belonged to the group of in-ground burials. The skeleton was oriented north-south, the head pointing north. The deceased was placed in supine position, with the legs contracted. The remains belonged to a woman 25-29 years old. The analysis of the skeleton revealed a whole set of unique congenital and developmental anomalies morphologically associated with underdevelopment of the left forearm bones and the so called clubhand, and underdevelopment of the left leg bones, including the bones of the left feet and extensive manifestations of polyostotic fibrous dysplasia accompanied by an impaired posture. All these developmental defects occurred at an early intra-uterine stage. The fact that this woman lived to nearly 30 years may be indicative of social empathy in this population group and complete adaptation of this woman with disabilities. High concentration of discrete variation traits observed on the skull and the skeleton does not exclude a possibility that this woman's parents were close relatives.