Torus occipitale and occipital bun: Case series of autapomorphic traits

Abstract

Nonmetric characteristics, epigenetic traits, and cranial distinct traits are indicated by tubercles, ossicles, bony protuberances, foramina/notches, and other features on the human skull. For decades, they have piqued the interest of anatomists and anthropologists by supporting and providing evidence for human evolution. Torus occipitale is one such cranial nonmetric variation which is the projection/prominence of inion (midpoint of external occipital protuberance). According to studies, it is caused by the ossification of the ligamentum nuchae's connection to the external occipital protuberance. Yet another nonmetric trait, occipital bun is the posterior projection of the squamous part of the occipital bone below internal occipital protuberance. This case series reports how autapomorphic traits such as torus occipitale and occipital bun are helpful to determine race and the relationship between living taxa and paleontology. These tiny qualitative differences can be used as phenotypic connection markers between groups. We hereby report four types of torus occipitale and cases of occipital bun with their clinical and anthropological relevance.

Keywords

• autapomorphic trait
• case series
• enthesophytes
• occipital bun
• torus occipitale