A study of CT scans at the Bowers Museum in Los Angeles yielded revealing conclusions about three mummies found in a secret crypt in the Dominican Church of Vác, Hungary. Veronica Skripetz, who died in 1808, had tuberculosis and died at age 38. Her baby, Johannes Orlovits, died at the age of 1 from probable dysentery.

Researchers Dr Linda Sutherland and Dr James Sutherland, members of the Horus Mummy Research Group, studied CT scans which showed details that church records could not reveal. Analysis revealed that Skripetz had scarring of his lungs from tuberculosis, and his thinness suggested a prolonged illness before his death.

As for baby Johannes Orlovits, the CT scan showed that he was well nourished and had no chronic diseases or broken bones. However, his intestines did not have the microbacteria necessary for digestion, suggesting that he died of dysentery, a potentially fatal disease at the time.

In the case of Michael Orlovits, Veronica Skripetz’s first husband, the scan showed a broken and healed left leg, a dislocated shoulder and a wooden peg holding his head to his body. These injuries could have occurred after his death, perhaps during handling of the body. There is also speculation that the broken leg could have been due to a work injury, as Orlovits was a miller and was exposed to risks at work.

The tomography scans have provided a more detailed view of the life and possible causes of death of these mummies, enriching the understanding of their history and historical context. The “Mummies of the World” exhibit at the Bowers Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and the science surrounding the study of these ancient relics.