Cases of Oral Pathologies from the First Archaeological Survey of Nubia

This study investigates three cases of oral pathology identified in skeletal and mummified remains originally excavated during the First Archaeological Survey of Nubia (1907-1911). While the Survey Team conducted an extensive analysis and published their initial findings in the first year of the Project, subsequent results were minimally documented. These remains have now been re–examined, as part of the GRAFTON ELLIOT SMITH PROJECT. The first of the cases involves a significant pathological bony cavity in the maxilla attributed to an odontogenic infection that caused perforation of the maxillary sinus. Evidence of chronic sinusitis on the inner
sinus wall suggests the infection persisted during the individual’s life. The second one presents features consistent with leprosy, including the distinctive rhinomaxillary syndrome, characterised by perforation of the hard palate and resorption of the alveolar bone supporting the maxillary anterior teeth. The final case focuses on a bilateral cleft palate found in an adult skull and considers the implications of survival into adulthood with this condition in an ancient societal context. These pathologies have been reassessed in the framework of recent research and discoveries made over the past century.