ABSTRACT
The morphology evaluation of the sternal end of the fourth rib through the Iscan's "phases method" is considered one of the most reliable method for age-at-death estimation of corpses of unknown identity. This study aims to develop a component model for age estimation alternative to Iscan's method. A numerical score, ranging from 3 to 9, was assigned based on the morphology of surface (S), antero/posterior walls (W) and articular margins (M) of the sternal end of the fourth rib in 71 white female corpse. For each component a regression formula was determined. The best correlation between end rib morphology and age-at-death was obtained through the formula of multiple regression with two independent variables (articular surface and antero/posterior walls): Age (years)=6.37(S)+5.33(W)-17.15±3.3.