Factors associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw among bisphosphonate users.
BACKGROUND
Bisphosphonates are medications that impact bone reformation by inhibiting osteoclast function. Osteonecrosis of the jaw has been reported among patients receiving these medications. It is unclear if the risk factors associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw among cancer patients taking bisphosphonates also are possible risk factors among patients receiving these medications for other indications.


METHODS
A systematic review search strategy was used to identify cases of osteonecrosis of the jaw among patients taking bisphosphonates for an indication other than cancer to identify potential contributing factors. Data were analyzed according to previous models to develop a more expanded model that may explain possible mechanisms for the development of osteonecrosis of the jaw among patients without cancer.


RESULTS
Ninety-nine cases of osteonecrosis of the jaw were identified among patients who were prescribed a bisphosphonate for an indication other than cancer. These cases included 85 osteoporosis patients, 10 patients with Paget's disease, 2 patients with rheumatoid arthritis, 1 patient with diabetes, and 1 patient with maxillary fibrous dysplasia. The mean age was 69.4 years, 87.3% were female, and 83.3% were receiving oral, but not intravenous, bisphosphonates. Of the 63 patients reporting dental care information, 88.9% had a dental procedure before the onset of osteonecrosis of the jaw. Of all cases providing medical information, 71% were taking at least one medication that affects bone turnover in addition to the bisphosphonate, and 81.3% reported additional underlying health conditions.


CONCLUSIONS
The case details suggest a multiplicity of factors associated with this condition and provide the foundation for a model outlining the potential mechanism for the development of osteonecrosis of the jaw among patients taking bisphosphonates for an indication other than cancer.
Hess
Lisa M
LM
College of Medicine, Arizona Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724-5024, USA. hess@u.arizona.edu
Jeter
Joanne M
JM
Benham-Hutchins
Marge
M
Alberts
David S
DS
D015897:Comorbidity; D003777:Dental Prophylaxis; D004164:Diphosphonates / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D007571:Jaw Diseases; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000453:epidemiology; D019647:Oral Surgical Procedures; D010001:Osteitis Deformans / Q000188:drug therapy; D010020:Osteonecrosis / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000453:epidemiology; D010024:Osteoporosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D012307:Risk Factors; D014076:Tooth Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology
D004164:Diphosphonates