Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) -positive mucocutaneous ulcer (EBVMCU) was first described as a lymphoproliferative disorder in 2010. In recent years, EBVMCU has been reported in the field of oral surgery. On the other hand, medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is an osteomyelitis that occurs in patients receiving antiresorptive agents including bisphosphonates (BP) and/or denosumab developing with bacterial infections such as dental diseases and mucositis. MRONJ caused by EBVMCU in the elderly has not been reported. Here, we report a rare case of MRONJ caused by EBVMCU in the elderly. The patient, an 82-year-old woman, had received BP for more than 2 years. An ulcerative lesion was found in the palatal mucosa; biopsy performed from the site confirmed the diagnosis of EBVMCU. At follow-up, the lesion disappeared spontaneously. At the 6-month follow-up, bone formation was observed at the site of the lesion, and the sequestrum was removed. At the 12-month follow-up healing of the EBVMCU region was seen indicating a good prognosis.
Keywords: Age-related immunosuppression; Epstein-Barr virus positive mucocutaneous ulcer (EBVMCU); Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ); Spontaneous remission.
© Association of Otolaryngologists of India 2021.