A Possible Stroke Victim from Pharaonic Egypt

OBJECTIVE: We describe the consequences of a stroke in an adult mummy from ancient Egypt including the differential diagnosis. To our knowledge this is the oldest hemiparalysis to be published in the scientific literature. METHODS: The mummy, from the 25th Dynasty (c. 747-656 B.C.), was found during excavation of the tomb chapel of Hery (TT 12) and Baqi, of the early 18th Dynasty (c. 1550-1292 B.C.). Seventeen mummified bodies were found in a small corridor connecting the 2 tombs. The mummy labeled Individual 6833 was studied macroscopically and radiologically and was unique in its positioning, the presence of a crutch, and the use of sticks as supports. RESULTS: The body belonged to a woman, between 25 and 40 years of age. The type of mummification was of a high level, with excerebration and evisceration carefully performed. CONCLUSIONS: The woman suffered a stroke late in life, with left hemiparalysis after bone growth was completed, and she lived with the results for several years.

Automated summary

This study describes the consequences of a stroke in an adult mummy from ancient Egypt, providing differential diagnosis. The mummy, belonging to a woman between 25 and 40 years old, suffered from left hemiparalysis after experiencing a stroke late in life.