Autopsy of an Egyptian mummy

Abstract

The mummy studied by multidisciplinary approach, was Pum II, belonging to the Philadelphia Art Museum. Radiographic studies had indicated that it was in good condition. The extensive wrapping is described, and parasites and insects found are noted. Protein and lipid material were extracted and analyzed by various biochemical methods; the blood group was determined. Carbon-14 dating of the linen from the wrappings indicate a Ptolemaic date, 170±70 B.C. Amino acid racemization reaction can be used to estimate the age of organic material; this method is being investigated. The mummy wrappings are linen, with some cotton; this is an unusually early occurrence of the latter. Metals in the bone were analyzed by neutron activation analysis, which was not practicable because of the large amount of calcium present, and atomic absorption, which showed the lead content to be less than that of modern man, and mercury content to be about the same. -- AATA