Characterization of mummy bone ochronotic pigment.

Radiologic examination of an Egyptian mummy showed characteristic radiologic changes seen in ochronosis. Desiring to confirm the diagnosis of ochronosis, punch biopsy samples of ochronotic mummy bone were removed for biochemical analysis. An organic solvent extraction procedure was developed to selectively isolate mummy ochronotic pigment, and spectroscopic methods were used to characterize the pigment as a homogentisic-acid--derived polymer.