Bisphosphonate-induced osteoradionecrosis

Bisphosphonates (BPs) are a class of agents used to treat osteoporosis and malignant bone metastasis. Despite these benefits, osteonecrosis of the jaws has recently emerged as a significant complication in a subset of patients receiving these drugs. This case presentation focuses on a 62-year-old man with a 3-year history of monthly use of Zometa (zolendronic acid) for treatment of multiple myeloma, resulting in BP-related osteoradionecrosis of the jaws (BRONJ). This new entity remains a challenge with diagnosis as well as treatment. The goal of this paper is to improve clinicians understanding and provide a guideline for establishing a stage-specific diagnosis and prevention of BRONJ.