Editorial: Paleoradiology and mummy studies for disease identification

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Source: Frontiers Medicine

Original: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmed.2026.1783130...

Published: 2026-02-03T00:00:00Z

Paleoradiology and mummy studies serve to identify diseases in the past. Classic x-rays were first used to research mummies, and later advanced computed tomography and magnetic resonance. These non-invasive imaging methods provide information on mummification procedures, the biological profile of the individual and taphonomic factors. In paleopathology, they make it possible to detect diseases, treatment procedures of the Egyptians and causes of death. Forensic anthropology uses data to identify individuals. Modern technologies bring valuable knowledge for paleopathology, forensic anthropology, archaeology, ethnology and sociocultural anthropology. Practical applications include creating virtual models, such as mummified hands, to determine a biological profile.[1]