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.Virtual SlidesThe virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1813972972323288
Highlights
Bisphosphonates are recommended in the treatment of osteoporosis and some cancers, in which case they prevent the appearance of bone metastasis
Bisphosphonates, derivates of pyrophosphates, have been used traditionally to treat hypocalcaemia associated with osteoporosis, multiple myeloma, Paget’s disease and bone metastasis in which case they exert an additional analgesic effect [1]
We could expect that an increasing number of cancer patients will be taking regularly and for extended periods of time these pharmacological agents [3,4,5]. Their value in clinical practice has been proven, the patients taking bisphosphonates are at risk of developing bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of jaw BRONJ
Summary
Bisphosphonates are recommended in the treatment of osteoporosis and some cancers, in which case they prevent the appearance of bone metastasis. Bisphosphonates, derivates of pyrophosphates, have been used traditionally to treat hypocalcaemia associated with osteoporosis, multiple myeloma, Paget’s disease and bone metastasis in which case they exert an additional analgesic effect [1]. Preclinical and clinical studies suggest that bisphosphonates are able to prevent bone metastasis in a variety of cancers such as breast, lung and prostate.
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