Dinosaur Diseases That Humans Also Experience
Jakarta – Diseases that humans experience are not exclusive to our species. It turns out that some of the diseases that afflict humans are also found in other creatures, including dinosaurs. From cataracts to cancer, dinosaurs had their share of health issues.
A study led by Bruce Rothschild of Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine in Rootstown, Ohio, revealed that dinosaurs could also suffer from cancer. Rothschild and his team conducted X-ray scans on 10,000 dinosaur fossils from various museums in North America. Shockingly, they found that 29 out of 97 dinosaur bones had malignant tumors.
Toothache is another ailment that affected dinosaurs. Researchers, led by Robert Reisz of Toronto Mississauga University, examined the lower jaw of a Labidosaurus hamatus fossil. This reptile, measuring one meter in length, lived during the time of the dinosaurs. The examination revealed extensive tooth decay, leading to the loss of many teeth. The exact cause of the infection remains unknown, but the research team speculates that it could be related to the dinosaur’s diet.
Pneumonia and tuberculosis, commonly known as TB, were also discovered in the fossilized dinosaur Proneusticosasiacus. This marine reptile lived 245 million years ago. An X-ray scan of the Proneusticosasiacus fossil revealed abnormal ribs, injuries, cancer, fungus, and scurvy. The research team concluded that the dinosaur suffered from a form of pneumonia and Pott’s disease, a deadly form of tuberculosis that affects the bones. Unfortunately, the reptile likely endured the infection for months or even years before succumbing to it. However, some scientists argue that the fossil actually belongs to Cymatosaurus, a closely related marine reptile.
Even worms plagued dinosaurs. Tapeworms and trematodes were common parasites found in these ancient creatures. Although researchers cannot determine the exact length of the tapeworms that infested dinosaurs, they estimate it could have been up to 30 meters long. This may seem small considering the size of a large dinosaur, but it is still significant. Finding evidence of worms in dinosaurs is challenging since the worms decompose over time. However, samples of worm eggs have been discovered in coprolites, fossilized feces belonging to several dinosaur species.
These findings shed light on the shared health experiences between dinosaurs and humans. Despite the vast differences in time and evolution, diseases have affected various species throughout history. Understanding the health challenges faced by dinosaurs can provide valuable insights into the study of diseases in both past and present creatures.
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How does the discovery of severe dental disease in dinosaurs help scientists understand the evolution of toothaches and potential treatments for dental diseases in humans?
The early Triassic period, about 245 million years ago. Upon examination, the team found evidence of severe dental disease in the form of a large abscess in the jaw, indicating that dinosaurs also suffered from toothaches.
In addition to cancer and dental disease, dinosaurs also experienced arthritis. According to a study conducted by scientists from the University of Bonn in Germany, evidence of arthritis was found in the tail vertebrae of a dinosaur called Allosaurus fragilis. This condition, characterized by joint inflammation and pain, is commonly seen in humans as well.
Not only did dinosaurs suffer from diseases that are still prevalent in modern times, but they also faced similar health challenges. Cataracts, for example, were also found in fossilized dinosaur remains. A study published in the journal Nature examined the eyes of a dinosaur called Thescelosaurus neglectus and found that it had cataracts, a condition in which the lens of the eye becomes cloudy and impairs vision.
Understanding that dinosaurs also experienced these diseases gives scientists a deeper insight into the evolution of these ailments. By studying the ancient remains of dinosaurs, researchers can trace the origins and development of diseases that continue to affect humans today. This knowledge can potentially lead to new treatment methods and preventive measures for these illnesses.
Overall, the discovery of diseases in dinosaurs highlights the similarities between humans and these ancient creatures. Despite the millions of years that separate us, we share a common vulnerability to various health issues. By exploring the medical history of dinosaurs, scientists can shed light on our own health challenges and work towards improving human well-being.
