Malaria is a likely killer in King Tut’s post-mortem

King Tutankhamen, the boy pharaoh, was frail and lame and suffered “multiple disorders” when he died at age 19 about 1324 B.C., but scientists have now determined the most likely agents of death: a severe bout of malaria combined with a degenerative bone condition.

The researchers said that to their knowledge “this is the oldest genetic proof of malaria in precisely dated mummies.” Several other mummies in the study also showed DNA evidence of the presence of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum, perhaps not surprising in a place like the Nile Valley.

The application of advanced radiological and genetic techniques to royal Egyptian mummies is a new step in the ever deepening reach of historical inquiry through science.

The study, reported yesterday, turned up no evidence of foul play, as had been suspected by some historians and popular writers familiar with palace intrigues in ancient Egypt.

Previous examinations of the Tut mummy had revealed a leg fracture that happened sometime before his death, possibly from a fall. This might have contributed to a life-threatening condition in an immune system already weakened by malaria and other disorders, the researchers said.

In addition, genetic “fingerprinting” of the 11 mummies in the study established family connections over five generations of Tut’s lineage. The identities were previously certain for only three of the mummies. Now, scientists said, the tests have identified the mummies of King Tut’s father and mother, who appear to be siblings, as well as the mummies of his grandmother and other probable relatives.

A two-part program, “King Tut Unwrapped,” will be shown on the Discovery Channel on Sunday and Monday.

(Via NYT)