The value and availability of forensic anthropological consultation in medicolegal death investigations.

Abstract

Forensic anthropological analysis is a valuable component of medicolegal death investigations. Like many other forensic sciences, forensic anthropology has become increasingly sophisticated in recent years, requiring qualified practitioners to complete intensive and long-term postgraduate study. In addition, forensic anthropology has experienced a recent increase in interest (facilitated in part by increased media attention), with the result that many are now much more aware of the nature and value of forensic anthropological services. While the number of qualified and certified forensic anthropologists is increasing, a misconception by a few in the medicolegal community that the numbers of forensic anthropologists cannot properly meet the consultation needs of medical examiner and coroner offices appears to exist, and moreover that anthropological services are often cost-prohibitive. Here we present an overview of the current state of forensic anthropology, including the typically available services, education and training requirements, as well as some information and suggestions for ways in which forensic pathologists and coroners can seek forensic anthropological consultation. Forensic pathology and forensic anthropology are both highly specialized fields with extensive education and training requirements, and a collaborative approach results in the most reliable and scientifically accurate forensic results. This collaboration is eminently achievable. Forensic anthropology is the science of applying anthropological method and theory to matters of medicolegal concern. Many are familiar with the traditional uses of forensic anthropology including estimation of the biological profile (age, sex, ancestry, stature) from unknown skeletal remains and the assessment of skeletal trauma. The science of forensic anthropology, however, has experienced a significant increase in sophistication and breadth in recent years. Depending on the training and interests of the individual anthropologist, as well as the resources of the institution by which they are employed, anthropological examinations may include search and recovery of human remains, the determination of skeletal versus non-skeletal origin, the determination of human versus non-human origin, the assessment of forensic significance of human remains, estimation of various biological parameters (including sex, age, ancestry, stature, as well as skeletal anomalies, pathologies and other conditions), trauma analysis, and personal identification (typically by radiographic comparison). Disclaimer: The views expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the FBI, Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.