Age-at-death estimation in adults and verification of a forensic international methodology using single-rooted teeth: An approach for a Peruvian context

Abstract

From a forensic perspective, age-at-death estimation in adults is a constant concern that impacts the development of investigations regarding unidentified dead bodies and the need to identify them. Several procedures for age-at-death estimation in adults have been introduced in Peru, and are used in various fields such as bioarcheology and forensics, but very little is known about the precision and accuracy levels of these procedures. Methods derived from the Lamendin technique, validated and the levels of applicability and confidence of the method, have been widely used in Peru since the year 2000 are known. However, a new estimation system using the Lamendin technique has been developed through a Bayesian model. This model stores the information measured in a Forensic International Dental Database (FIDB), which contains information of several populations and also contributes to assessing the applicability levels of this procedure, resulting in more information that can contribute to strengthen the calculation and the outcome. Results show that the Bayesian model has a homogeneous behavior when it is applied to a Peruvian population, and it shows a better adjustment than previous procedures designed for Peruvian populations. Our research recommends using the Bayesian model for forensic age estimation in this population. Lamendin's technique and its methodological derivatives may contribute to start thinking about the global standardization of the method based on forensic Quality Management criteria, which include –but are not limited to– interlaboratory measurement controls, calibration of measurement sources, and application procedure guides.