Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws (MRONJ) and quality of life evaluation: a pilot study

BACKGROUND: MRONJ (medication related osteonecrosis of the jaws) is a well-known side effect of certain drugs, which are used to influence bone metabolism for the cure of osteo-metabolic or cancer diseases. The aim of this study is to assess the quality of life (QOL) under a physical and mental point of view in patients affected by MRONJ compared with the general population. METHODS: The study has been accomplished through the administration of the SF-12 questionnaire: 30 patients of the MRONJ group were evaluated. RESULTS: Significant differences based on the level of education and age of the subjects, on the location and finally on the stage of necrosis of the jaw have been identified. In this pilot study the test sample shows how MRONJ can aggravate the conditions of patients, above all under a physical point of view. CONCLUSIONS: Prevention of MRONJ and its symptoms as dysphagia, oral pain, immunological compromission and the need of frequent antibiotic therapies is a crucial part of modern oral pathology and dentistry, above all for oncologic patients who already have a general decrease of physical and mental activities, leading to a poor quality of life.