Cam deformity of the hip and personal identification of unidentified remains: two case reports of forensic anthropological interest

Abstract

Cam-type deformity of the hip is a morphological change at the femoral head–neck junction, caused by abnormal contact with the acetabulum during hip flexion. It can result from both pathological conditions and repetitive physical stress. Case presentation study examines skeletal remains of two individuals, Subjects A and B, both showing signs of cam-type deformity. Subject A exhibited osteogenesis imperfecta of the sternum, degenerative arthritis in the thoracic vertebrae and patellae, and partial fusion of adjacent vertebral bodies with hyperostosis. These findings suggest diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH), which likely caused altered gait mechanics and uneven weight distribution, contributing to the deformity. Subject B showed bilateral Achilles enthesopathy and early patellar hyperostosis, indicating a history of intense physical activity. The cam-type deformity in this case was attributed to overuse syndrome. Cam-type deformities can arise from distinct causes, including systemic pathology and mechanical overuse. Recognizing such skeletal changes can offer valuable insights into an individual’s health and activity history, supporting efforts in forensic identification