Bisphosphonate Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: An Update

Objectives: The aim of this paper is to summarize different diagnostic criteria as well as probable aetiopathogenesis of bisphosphonates related osteonecrosis of the jaw. Materials and Methods: The electronic search of peer-reviewed journals were performed in MEDLINE (PubMed) database in order to find the relevant articles on bisphosphonates related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BP-related ONJ). The search was restricted to English language articles, published from January 2002 to May 2013. On the basis of these articles, probable aetiopathogenesis and different diagnostic criteria of BP-related ONJ were summarized. Results: BP-related ONJ is related to the development of avascular necrosis or dead jaw bones. In recent literature many given hypotheses show the aetiopathogenesis and diagnosis of BP-related ONJ which are interlinked and have multifactorial nature. Their diagnosis revolves around four main diagnostic criteria that differentiate it from other conditions which can delay bone healing. Conclusions: Factors like potency of bisphosphonates, biology of jaw bone, antiangiogenic property of bisphosphonates and soft tissue toxicity in combination with present infection, other drugs, pre-existing pathologies, compromised immune response and dentoalveolar trauma may lead to development of BP-related ONJ. © 2013, Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of India.