Historic specimen of calvaria showing late-stage syphilitic involvement from the Vernon-Roberts Museum of The University of Adelaide (Australia)

Abstract

In this case study, we discuss a rare specimen of syphilis from the Vernon-Roberts Museum of The University of Adelaide. The anatomical specimen has historical and medical implications of syphilis in Australia during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Given the lack of preserved clinical information, the case study underscores the importance of integrating paleopathological evidence with social and historical contexts in understanding disease expression and progression in past populations.