Osteonecrosis of the Jaw
Pronunciation: os-tee-oh-neh-KRO-sis
Also written as: ONJ — Osteonecrosis of the Jaw
A severe condition characterised by exposed, necrotic bone in the maxillofacial region persisting for more than eight weeks, most commonly associated with antiresorptive or antiangiogenic drug therapy.
Full Definition
Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is defined as exposed or necrotic bone in the maxillofacial region that has not healed within eight weeks after identification by a healthcare provider, in a patient with no prior history of radiation to the jaw. The most widely recognized form is Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (MRONJ), previously called bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ), now broadened to include antiresorptive and antiangiogenic agents. Risk factors include intravenous bisphosphonate therapy, denosumab, and anti-VEGF agents, combined with local triggers such as dental extraction. Editors must apply the current preferred term 'MRONJ' and not use the outdated 'BRONJ' unless specifically discussing historical literature.
Usage
Usage note: Use 'MRONJ' (Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw) as the current preferred abbreviation. 'BRONJ' (Bisphosphonate-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw) is outdated and should be replaced in contemporary publications. Distinguish from osteoradionecrosis, which is radiation-induced.
In Context
- "The oncology patient developed medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw following long-term intravenous zoledronic acid therapy." — Clinical case report
- "The editor updated all instances of 'BRONJ' to 'MRONJ' to reflect the expanded AAOMS 2022 position paper nomenclature." — Editorial revision note