Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw in cancer patients: Implications for nurses

Citation

Morris M & Cruickshank S (2010) Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw in cancer patients: Implications for nurses. European Journal of Oncology Nursing, 14 (3), pp. 205-210. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejon.2009.12.003

Abstract
Purpose: This paper reports a review of the literature with a specific focus on osteonecrosis of the jaw. Bisphosphonate drugs are commonly used in the treatment of bone disease secondary to myeloma and solid tumours, such as breast and prostate cancer. In the past few years, an uncommon but distressing condition known as osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) has been detected in patients who are having bisphosphonate treatment, particularly the intravenous (IV) preparations. Osteonecrosis of the jaw results from bone exposure in the oral cavity with subsequent death of bone tissue (necrosis).  Method: The review searched key databases including Medline, British Nursing Index, Cochrane, and meeting abstracts to ascertain the extent of literature in this field.  Results: Fourty-two articles were reviewed which described the clinical manifestations of ONJ, the reported incidence and clinical cases.  Conclusion: The results indicate there is an emerging body of evidence in this field and nurses delivering bisphosphonates need to familiarise themselves with the current guidance to ensure risks are minimised for patients. © 2009 Elsevier Ltd.

Keywords
bisphosphonic acid derivative; bone density conservation agent, advanced practice nursing; bone necrosis; bone tumor; chemically induced disorder; drug monitoring; human; incidence; jaw disease; metastasis; nurse attitude; nursing; nursing assessment; oncology nursing; organization and management; patient education; practice guideline; primary prevention; review; risk factor, Advanced Practice Nursing; Bone Density Conservation Agents; Bone Neoplasms; Diphosphonates; Drug Monitoring; Humans; Incidence; Jaw Diseases; Nurse's Role; Nursing Assessment; Oncologic Nursing; Osteonecrosis; Patient Education as Topic; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Primary Prevention; Risk Factors

Journal
European Journal of Oncology Nursing: Volume 14, Issue 3