LINEAR MEASUREMENTS OF CORTICAL BONE AND DENTAL ENAMEL BY COMPUTED-TOMOGRAPHY - APPLICATIONS AND PROBLEMS

This paper explores the potential of high-resolution computed tomograp hy (CT) as a morphometric tool in paleoanthropology. The accuracy of l inear measurements of enamel thickness and cortical bone thickness tak en from CT scans is evaluated by making comparison with measurements t aken directly from physical sections. The measurements of cortical bon e are taken on extant and fossil specimens with and without attached m atrix, and the dental specimens studied include a sample of 12 extant human molars. Local CT numbers (representing X-ray attenuation) are us ed to determine the exact position of the boundaries of a structure. U sing this technique most studied dimensions, including four of human m olar enamel thickness, could be obtained from CT scans with a maximum error range of +/-0.1 mm. The limitations of the method are discussed with special reference to problems associated with highly mineralized fossils. (C) Wiley-Liss, Inc.