Associated systemic diseases and etiologies of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw: a retrospective study of 265 surgical cases

Denosumab-Induced Maxillary Osteonecrosis: A Case Study on Long-Term Complications in Multiple Myeloma Treatment

Background: Targeted therapies like denosumab have revolutionized multiple myeloma (MM) treatment, improved patient outcomes while introducing long-term complications. This study explores a rare instance of delayed maxillary osteonecrosis post-denosumab therapy, delving into its pathophysiology and management. Methods: A 40-year-old male MM patient who developed a painful palatal lesion post denosumab treatment and diagnosed of maxillary osteonecrosis by computed tomography scan and surgical biopsy is presented. Treatment history, symptom progression, and response to the PENTOCLO protocol were analyzed. Results: Post-denosumab discontinuation osteonecrosis highlights its prolonged impact on bone metabolism. PENTOCLO treatment protocol led to significant improvement. Genetic factors influencing osteonecrosis susceptibility have been discussed and considered. Conclusions: This case underscores the need for vigilance regarding long-term complications in MM survivors, preventive strategies, including regular dental evaluations and reducing invasive dental procedures, are crucial. We advocate for an interdisciplinary approach and further research into tailored prevention and management of osteonecrosis in cancer survivors.

Could MRONJ Be Related to Osimertinib Monotherapy in Lung Cancer Patients after Denosumab Suspension?

BACKGROUND

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws is the most frequent complication in patients treated or in therapy with antiresorptive/antiangiogenetic drugs. The list of medications possibly related to MRONJ onset is constantly growing; we aimed to report on a third-generation epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (Osimertinib) as possibly responsible for bilateral maxillary necrosis onset in the herein-described case.

METHODS

In June 2023, an oncologic patient with two different maxillary bone exposures was referred to our attention. His medical history revealed a two-year Denosumab regimen along with Osimertinib, the latter not suspended before teeth extractions. The clinicians performed a sequestrum removal and bone debridement after three cycles of antibiotic therapy.

RESULTS

Histologic examinations confirmed the clinical diagnosis of MRONJ excluding a metastatic occurrence, while complete mucosal healing was achieved after 15 days.

CONCLUSIONS

The patient suspended Denosumab for more than six months before teeth extraction for MRONJ prevention; hence, failure to discontinue Osimertinib led us to consider it a possible etiological factor. From a literature analysis, only one case has already been published reporting a possible Osimertinib-related occurrence of MRONJ in lung cancer patients. Our case is a further report that could be intended as an alert both for oncologists and dentists to share decisions about the oral management of such patients together, also informing them about this possible risk. Also, this report could trigger in the scientific community the necessity to evaluate further guidelines for similar doubtful cases in which the drug interaction, the mono-suspension, and the possible removable prosthesis-related additional trauma should be considered causes or con-causes.