Importance of the comparative anatomy in Forensic Anthropology – case report

Resumo

In forensic sciences, reconstructive victim profile is
a commonly used procedure to provide individual data in cases of
complex human identifications. In forensic anthropology, valuable
data are obtained from skeletal and dental analysis such as gender,
age, ancestry, stature, and differentiation between human and nonhuman remains. Objective: To highlight the relevance of comparative
anatomy analysis to differentiate human and non-human remains.
Case report: Four bone fragments and one tooth were found on a
potential crime scene, and were submitted to forensic examinations.
The examinations revealed non-human anthropological remains.
Additionally, the analyzed bones and tooth were classified as animal
remains, specifically from a domestic dog (Canis lupus familiares).
Conclusion: In this context, it is relevant to be trained and aware of
the usefulness of comparative anatomy into the forensic anthropology
routine in order to perform complete and accurate examinations.