LAUSR

OBJECTIVE To identify diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) in the human bioarcheological record to seek out temporal, geographic and dietary information to enhance better understanding of this common condition. MATERIALS AND METHODS A review of available literature was conducted. RESULTS DISH has been identified in hominin populations over millions of years, including several different human species. The distribution of DISH in ancient populations is diverse, both temporally and geographically. Where available, dietary intake of subjects with DISH, in contrast to those without DISH, suggests that metabolic factors associate with DISH. CONCLUSION DISH is a ubiquitous human disorder over the ages. Metabolic factors appear important in ancient populations of those with DISH.