A Possible case of Facio-Auriculo-Vertebral sequence (FAVs) in an adult female from medieval Iceland (13th–16th Century)

Abstract

ObjectiveThis paper presents a possible case of Facio-Auriculo-Vertebral sequence (FAVs) in an adult female from Haffjarðarey, Western Iceland (1200–1563 CE) and a brief review of associated terminology. MaterialsThe skeletal remains of a single adult female (HFE-A-34, 18–24 years old), excavated in 1945 by the National Museum of Iceland. MethodsWe carried out macroscopic examination of the cranium and mandible in 2017. ResultsRight side unilateral asymmetric craniofacial dysplasia was identified on the cranium and mandible of HFE-A-34. ConclusionsThis individual presents with anomalous craniofacial asymmetry consistent with a clinical diagnosis of FAVs. SignificanceThis paper offers a visually distinct case of an under-represented and under-documented congenital condition for future identification within paleopathology. LimitationsInfra-cranial skeletal manifestations of FAVs would strengthen this possible diagnosis, but at this time it is not possible to definitively link the cranium and mandible of HFE-A-34 to any of the infra-cranial remains excavated from Haffjarðarey. Suggestions for further researchIn addition to further clarifying the variable nature of FAVs in archaeological remains, a detailed discussion of disability and the perception of disabled individuals within the medieval North Atlantic is necessary in order to understand the lived experiences of affected individuals.