Abstract
Drug-related osteonecrosis of the jaw is a rare complication from treatment in patients suffering from cancer and other diseases. These lesions are described as an adverse effect of a spicific type of antiresorptive and/or biological therapy, which affects bone metabolism.
The risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw is significantly higher in cancer patients than in patients with metabolic bone diseases. Patients suffering from advanced urological malignancies represent a group with a high risk for the development of these lesions.
Osteonecrosis of the jaw impairs the quality of life for those affected. It may significantly restrict or completely prevent food intake.
The drug-related osteonecrosis of the jaw is a condition that has only recently been described. As a result, the pathophysiology of these lesions is still poorly understood, and a consensus on the treatment has not been reached.
Since the therapy of the jaw osteonecrosis is challenging, long lasting, and often has limited success, emphasis needs to be placed on preventive measures. The authors present a literature review and summarize the current knowledge about these lesions.