The mystery of shrinking heads

Abstract

Shrinking heads as trophies are well known all over the world. Several forms of mummified human trophy heads were produced by different tribes, in addition not true or not traditional shrunken heads were put out. A well preserved shrunken head of unknown origin was examined by our group. Besides anatomy histological and DNA analysis of the mummified material was performed. Furthermore larvae connected to the hair were examined microscopically. Histology of the skin from the neck region showed cellular structures with cytoplasm and nucleus. The larvae were identified as from Pediculus humanis capitis, the human hair lice. Finally DNA analysis of the mummified head revealed a human female STR profile.