MRONJ risk of adjuvant bisphosphonates in early stage breast cancer

Br Dent J. 2018 Jan 26;224(2):74-79. doi: 10.1038/sj.bdj.2017.1039. Epub 2017 Dec 15.

Abstract

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) has most commonly been associated with bisphosphonates. The routine uses of these drugs are now well established predominantly in metastatic cancer with bone involvement, multiple myeloma, hypercalcaemia, osteoporosis and Paget's disease. Recently, however, the use of bisphosphonates in early breast cancer has shown a reduction in breast cancer recurrence and breast cancer deaths. This new indication for their use approximates to a further 20,000 women per year in the UK being prescribed bisphosphonates. In this article, we consider the dental impact of this new use of bisphosphonates, report on the rates of MRONJ seen in early breast cancer bisphosphonate trials and discuss strategies aimed at minimising the risk of bisphosphonate-exposed patients developing MRONJ.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bisphosphonate-Associated Osteonecrosis of the Jaw*
  • Bone Density Conservation Agents / adverse effects
  • Bone Density Conservation Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Breast Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Diphosphonates
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local
  • Osteonecrosis

Substances

  • Bone Density Conservation Agents
  • Diphosphonates