ANTHROPOLOGIE

Volume 36/3, 1998, pp. 231-233

CAPASSO L., DI TOTA G.
Fifth Toe Distal Inter-Phalangeous Synostosis: Paleopathological Description and Possible Evolutionary Significance

The authors examine the gross pathology and the radiographic aspect of a distal inter-phalangeous synostosis of the fifth toe from archaeological excavation of an early Middle Age cemetery in Central Italy (Teramo-SanťAnna, Abruzzo, Vll century A.D.). The authors suggests that this type of congenital synostosis might be of evolutionary significance. In fact, human toes might be considered vestigial organs, because they have undergane a remarkable reduction in length during the evolution of our species, perhaps in connection with the acquisition of the erect posture and, more recently, with the regular use of footwear.

Congenital synostosis – Fifth toe – Vestigial organs – Effects of the shoes