Bisphosphonates and osteonecrosis of the jaws: Clinical and forensic aspects

• Published in: Archives of oral biology 2023-11, Vol.155, p.105792-105792, Article 105792
• Main Authors: Nogueira, Diana, Caldas, Inês Morais, Dinis-Oliveira, Ricardo Jorge
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bisphosphonates; Krokodil; Osteonecrosis; Pathophysiology; Prevention; Site specificity
• ISSN: 0003-9969; 1879-1506
• DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2023.105792

This manuscript aims to provide a comprehensive review of the current knowledge in the pathophysiology, diagnosis, prevention, and other relevant clinical and forensic aspects of a potentially severe complication known as medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) while synthesizing state-of-the-art information on bisphosphonates and introducing a possible differential diagnosis. An extensive search was conducted in PubMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine) without a time or language constraint, focusing on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, risk factors, site specificity, signs and symptoms, differential diagnosis, prevention, and forensic aspects of MRONJ. All types of original articles, reviews, case reports, short communications, opinion articles, guidelines, and letters to editors were considered to produce a complete review on this subject. MRONJ prevention relies on a multidisciplinary approach and is critical since truly effective treatments are lacking. This therapeutic challenge is partly due to uncertainty regarding this condition’s pathophysiology. Differential diagnosis of osteonecrosis of the jaws associated with krokodil abuse, one of the most dangerous and homemade psychoactive illicit substances, should be considered. Further research into the etiology and site specificity of MRONJ is encouraged, aiming to develop novel treatment prospects. Indeed, comprehending this would allow for increased efficacy and therapeutic options while emphasizing the importance of prevention. In addition, we advocate for greater consensus among the various societies regarding MRONJ's treatment and management. •Bisphosphonates can cause medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ).•A comprehensive review of the pathophysiology, diagnosis, prevention, and forensic aspects of MRONJ is provided.•Krokodil is one of the most dangerous psychoactive illicit substances.•Differential diagnosis of osteonecrosis of the jaws associated with krokodil abuse should be considered.