mineralize

1. To convert to a mineral substance; petrify.
2. To transform a metal into a mineral by oxidation.
3. To impregnate with minerals.

1. To develop or hasten mineral formation.
2. To collect or study minerals.

The addition of mineral matter to the body, especially the skeleton.

• cutaneous m. — see calcinosis cutis.
• dystrophic m. — see dystrophic calcification.
• ectopic m. — the deposition of calcium salts in abnormal locations, e.g. in uremia, hypervitaminosis D.
• m. front — the interface between the unmineralized osteoid and the mineralized bone. Called also phosphate ridge.
• heterotopic m. — see ectopic mineralization (above).
• metastatic m. — calcification of unusual tissues leading to the development of metastatic bone.