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 (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 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]
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