Biochemical bone markers of bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) and nonbisphosphonate drugs in osteonecrosis of the jaw

Bisphosphonates are widely used in the treatment of many medical conditions, such as osteoporosis, multiple myeloma, Paget's disease, etc. However, side effect has been documented in the published data during the past years, osteonecrosis of the jaw in patients receiving long-term bisphosphonate therapy. Although pathogenesis of BRONJ(bisphophonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw) is not yet fully understood, it is currently known to be a disease associated with suppressed bone turnover by bisphopbonate. Recent literature has indicated a similar association with nonbisphosphonate drugs used in cancer therapy including monoclonal antibodies denosumab and bevacizumab and multikinase inhibitor sunitinib. Accordingly, many studies have been carried out on the biochemical markers examination to assess the risk for BRONJ. The treatment of BRONI is reported with a review of the relevant literature. However, there is still a controversial discussion about the adequate treatment. It is necessary to accumulate further studies in order to establish more useful biochemical markers and effective treatment for BRONJ.