Description:
<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title><jats:p>Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a non‐inflammatory joint disease mainly characterised by the ossification of the right anterior longitudinal ligament and the presence of enthesopathies. Studies have shown that the disease typically affects males of advanced age. This is a case report of a female individual, aged between 40 and 60 years, dating to 1,472–1,635 AD and found in Eastern Germany. A differential diagnosis was completed following macroscopic examination and radiographic imaging of the affected bones. The results show several pathological features that resemble skeletal characteristics of DISH, besides other diseases. Therefore, we discuss DISH and provide a differential diagnosis of additional pathologies. Our case is particularly important because ancient female DISH cases are underrepresented and the burial location indicates a possible noble or monastic context, both linked with a lifestyle known to be related to DISH.</jats:p>