Anthropology Archive

Osteon Counting

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Osteon counting (an osteon is the microscopic bone unit of compact bone, consisting of the Haversian canal and surrounding lamellae) is a specialized technique for determining the age of a person. While a person is alive, the bones are alive as are the soft tissue organs of the body. Bone is made of specialized cells that grow, die, and are replaced. More than 30 years ago,

anthropologists discovered that looking at the ratio of different types of bone cells under the microscope might be useful in determining age (Figure 52). Research has continued into the microscopic changes that occur in bone. Osteon counting continues to be a useful tool in determining age, particularly in adults where other gross developmental changes have ceased. Osteon counting requires special equipment and training to take and read the samples. The forensic anthropologist is the best person to determine if this technique is appropriate or not.