Osteonecrosis of the jaw
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Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is a severe bone disease (osteonecrosis) that affects the jaws (the maxilla and the mandible). Various forms of ONJ have been described since 1861, and a number of causes have been suggested in the literature.
Osteonecrosis of the jaws | |
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Other names | Osteonecrosis of the mandible |
Osteonecrosis of the jaw of the upper left jaw in a patient diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency | |
Specialty | Rheumatology |
Osteonecrosis of the jaw associated with bisphosphonate therapy, which is required by some cancer treatment regimens, has been identified and defined as a pathological entity (bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis of the jaw) since 2003.[1] The possible risk from lower oral doses of bisphosphonates, taken by patients to prevent or treat osteoporosis, remains uncertain.[2]
Treatment options have been explored; however, severe cases of ONJ still require surgical removal of the affected bone.[3] A thorough history and assessment of pre-existing systemic problems and possible sites of dental infection are required to help prevent the condition, especially if bisphosphonate therapy is considered.[2]