Pronunciation: [mˌɛdəla͡ɪzˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA) 
The word "medullization" is spelled with a "z" rather than the more commonly used "s" due to its origin in the Latin word "medulla," meaning "marrow." This spelling indicates the "z" sound, as in "zoo." Additionally, the "ll" in "medulla" is pronounced similarly to the "l" in "million," which is why the double "l" is used in "medullization." The IPA phonetic transcription for "medullization" is /ˌmɛdəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/.
Medullization is a term used primarily in paleontology and anthropology to describe a process in which a bone becomes hollowed out or filled with medullary or spongy tissue. The medullary tissue is often indicative of growth and development, and can provide valuable insights into the physiology and life history of an organism.
The process of medullization occurs as a result of changes in the bone's structure and composition. It typically involves the expansion of the internal cavity or the deposition of lightweight, porous bone tissue within the existing structure. This can result in a reduction in the overall density and strength of the bone, making it more lightweight and suitable for certain functional requirements.
In paleontology, medullization is often observed in long bones of various extinct animal species. By examining the presence of medullary tissue in fossilized bones, scientists can make inferences about the growth rates, reproductive physiology, and even reproductive stages of ancient creatures. Similarly, medullization can be used in forensic anthropology to estimate the age and sex of skeletal remains based on the presence and patterns of medullary tissue.
Overall, medullization provides valuable information about the biological processes and structural adaptations of organisms, allowing scientists to better understand their evolutionary history and ecological roles.
The enlargement of the medullary spaces in rarefying osteitis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
