Aortic paleopathology: osteological evidence of an aortic aneurysm in historic human remains from Lithuania (17th–18th centuries AD)

This report investigates a probable aortic aneurysm in a skeleton from Kedainiai, Lithuania, assessing cardiovascular signs within a sample of 22 adults. Notably, sternal bone changes indicative of chronic aneurysmal pressure were observed. The remains, identified as those of a middle-aged adult male (ca. 50 years old), exhibited an oval-shaped perforation and surrounding erosion and remodeling on the sternal body, consistent with chronic pressure exerted by a dilated ascending aorta. These findings were systematically compared with documented cases of aortic aneurysms from osteological specimens. The observed pathology aligns with thoracic aortic aneurysms, often associated with aging, hypertension, and connective tissue weakening. Based on osteological evidence alone, malignancies, genetic syndromes such as Marfan and Ehlers-Danlos, and infectious diseases like syphilis were ruled out as primary causes; however, syphilis cannot be entirely excluded. This case underscores the intersection of genetic predisposition, lifestyle, and diet in ancient societies and highlights the value of bioarchaeology in tracing the evolution of cardiovascular diseases. By focusing on skeletal markers, this research provides critical insights into the prevalence and impact of aortic aneurysms in historical populations, offering a framework for understanding their implications in modern medicine. The case also emphasizes bioarchaeological investigations relevance in tracing disease evolution and informing contemporary medical approaches.