Anomaly and Norm

The Adaptability of Life Between Anatomy and Biology

1. Hydrocephalus (skeleton)

2. Hydrocephalic skull with trepanation

3. Hydrocephalic skull

4. Quadruped foetus (Turner syndrome)

5. Sirenomelia (skeleton)

6. Acrania with total spina bifida

Hydrocephalic skulls highlight central nervous system disorders. There is a hydrocephalic skull from an infant, characterised by abnormal head enlargement due to excessive cerebrospinal fluid accumulation. Additionally, an adult hydrocephalic skull shows signs of trepanation, performed to relieve intracranial pressure and manage hydrocephalus through surgery aimed at reducing symptoms and improving the patient’s quality of life.

Conditions such as acrania with total spina bifida and the quadruped fetus (Turner syndrome) illustrate severe congenital malformations, while sirenomelia, characterised by fused legs, represents one of the most significant skeletal anomalies, which may have inspired the ancient myth of the Sirens.