Skeletonised remains show all limb epiphyses fused except the medial end of the clavicle, which shows partial union. The estimated age range is:
- A 36 to 45 years
- B 26 to 35 years
- C 18 to 25 years ✓
- D 14 to 17 years
Correct answer: C. 18 to 25 years
Explanation
The medial end of the clavicle is the last epiphysis in the body to unite. Its centre appears around 18 to 20 years and fusion is completed roughly between 23 and 25 years, so partial union places the subject in the young adult range of 18 to 25 years. This makes the medial clavicle the key bone for confirming whether an adolescent skeleton has reached adulthood. Fusion of all other long bone epiphyses occurs earlier, mostly by 18 to 20 years.
Reference: Parikh's Textbook of Medical Jurisprudence and Toxicology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.