Alendronate-Induced Osteonecrosis of the Jaw in an Elderly Female

Summary Background In recent years, more and more evidence has demonstrated that a rare symptom, osteonecrosis of the jaw, may be associated with long-term use of bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) adversely affects the quality of life, producing significant morbidity in afflicted patients. The most common signs and symptoms are swelling, exposed bone, local infection, pathologic fracture of the jaw, etc. Patients and methods We report the case of an elderly female patient with alendronate-induced ONJ. After the patient discontinued taking bisphosphonates and her physician prescribed antiseptic mouthwashes and antibiotic drugs, her uncomfortable symptoms were relieved. Results This side effect rarely occurs in Taiwan; it causes permanent harm to patients. Moreover, it affects the normal function of taking food. Therefore, this article includes a case report and a list of some related papers systematically providing clinicians with a reference for future prescription of bisphosphonates. Conclusion Furthermore, we provide suggestions for the Mackay Memorial Hospital and dentists, in anticipation of earlier measures being taken in order to avoid bisphosphonaterelated osteonecrosis, and to reduce additional medical expenses resulting from this side effect.