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Age changes in the pubic symphysis of Macaca mulatta
Author(s) -
Rawlins Richard G.
Publication year - 1975
Publication title -
american journal of physical anthropology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.146
H-Index - 119
eISSN - 1096-8644
pISSN - 0002-9483
DOI - 10.1002/ajpa.1330420315
Subject(s) - pubic symphysis , sagittal plane , ankylosis , anatomy , offspring , medicine , biology , orthodontics , pregnancy , pelvis , genetics
Age changes in the pubic symphyses of 142 Cayo Santiago rhesus monkeys (known age, sex and maternal genealogy) are described. Symphyseal development is sexually dimorphic. Males generate a ridge and furrow system which is gradually replaced by a solid ankylosis at the mid‐sagittal plane. Female development parallels that of the male until puberty. With pregnancy and delivery, relaxation and reaggregation of pelvic ligaments binding the symphysis destroy the symphyseal face. Continued bearing of offspring inhibits mid‐sagittal ankylosis. Limited estimates of skeletal age can be made by using symphyseal development as an indicator of senescence.