Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of jaw (BRONJ): an anti-angiogenic side-effect?

Diagn Pathol. 2012 Jul 6:7:78. doi: 10.1186/1746-1596-7-78.

Abstract

Bisphosphonates are recommended in the treatment of osteoporosis and some cancers, in which case they prevent the appearance of bone metastasis. The patients taking bisphosphonates are at increased risk of developing bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of jaw (BRONJ) which is characterised by the presence of an un-healing wound after dental surgery. BRONJ might represent an anti-angiogenic side effect. However, the real number of patients with BRONJ might be higher than currently recorded. Considering the differential diagnosis which includes various primary and secondary cancers, a correct histopathological diagnosis is very important. The morphological criteria for diagnosis of BRONJ are highlighted in this material.

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers / analysis
  • Biopsy
  • Bisphosphonate-Associated Osteonecrosis of the Jaw / metabolism
  • Bisphosphonate-Associated Osteonecrosis of the Jaw / pathology*
  • Facial Bones / blood supply
  • Facial Bones / chemistry
  • Facial Bones / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Neovascularization, Physiologic*
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Wound Healing*

Substances

  • Biomarkers