An Odontoma in Domestic Cattle ( <scp> <i>Bos taurus</i> </scp> ) From the Early Neolithic Site of Međureč (Serbia): Microcomputed Tomography and Histological Analysis

ABSTRACT This study documents one of the earliest known odontomas in domestic cattle ( Bos taurus ) from the Early Neolithic site of Međureč, central Serbia (ca. 6200–6100 bc ). A fragment of a right maxilla, preserving the first molar, was examined using a multimethod approach combining species and tooth‐type identification, age‐at‐death estimation, radiography, microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT), and histological analysis. Macroscopic and microscopic examination revealed a nodular, irregularly mineralized mass composed predominantly of cementum, with smaller amounts of dentin and enamel, consistent with a benign odontoma. Micro‐CT and histology showed complex disorganized tissue architecture, with nodular cementum hyperplasia, irregular lamellae, and occasional enamel remnants, without evidence of inflammation or invasive growth. The lesion likely represents a developmental anomaly or reactive hyperplasia during odontogenesis. Its presence in a juvenile individual (15–18 months) provides novel insights into dental pathologies in early domestic cattle of the Early Neolithic. These findings underscore the value of combining advanced imaging and histological methods to refine the etiology and differential diagnosis of archaeological animal diseases, thereby contributing to a better understanding of cattle health in the past of the Central Balkans.