Bisphosphonate complications including osteonecrosis of the jaw

Abstract

Bisphosphonate therapy has been incorporated in the standard management of patients with multiple myeloma-related bony disease. Although their efficacy in reducing skeletal related events is important in the supportive management of the myeloma patient, post-marketing experience with this class of agents, particularly the more potent intravenous agents pamidronate and zoledronic acid, have raised cautionary notes regarding the potential side effects of these agents. The focus of this session is to review the risk factors, incidence, prevention strategies and management of bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw. In addition, pathophysiology, incidence and monitoring for renal dysfunction during chronic therapy with these agents are reviewed.