title: An Update on the Hazards and Risks of Forensic Anthropology, Part I: Human Remains.
abstract: This work reviews the hazards and risks of practicing forensic anthropology in North America, with a focus on pathogens encountered through contact with unpreserved human remains. Since the publication of Galloway and Snodgrass' seminal paper concerning the hazards of forensic anthropology, research has provided new information about known pathogen hazards, and regulating authorities have updated recommendations for the recognition and treatment of several infections. Additionally, forensic anthropology has gained popularity, exposing an increased number of students and practitioners to these hazards. Current data suggest many occupational exposures to blood or body fluids go unreported, especially among students, highlighting the need for this discussion. For each pathogen and associated disease, this work addresses important history, reviews routes of exposure, provides an overview of symptoms and treatments, lists decontamination procedures, and presents data on postmortem viability. Personal protection and laboratory guidelines should be established and enforced in conjunction with the consideration of these data.
authors.affiliation: Department of Anthropology, Southern Illinois University, 1000 Faner Drive (MC 4502), Carbondale, IL, 62901.
authors.forename: Lindsey G
authors.initials: LG
authors.lastname: Roberts
authors.affiliation: Department of Anthropology, Southern Illinois University, 1000 Faner Drive (MC 4502), Carbondale, IL, 62901.
authors.forename: Gretchen R
authors.initials: GR
authors.lastname: Dabbs
authors.affiliation: Department of Anthropology, Southern Illinois University, 1000 Faner Drive (MC 4502), Carbondale, IL, 62901.
authors.forename: Jessica R
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Spencer
mesh_terms: D000071298:Body Remains; D018732:Forensic Anthropology; D006801:Humans; D009656:North America; D016273:Occupational Exposure; D012306:Risk
keywords: bloodborne pathogen; forensic anthropology; forensic science; hazard; occupational exposure; risk