Mandibular Osteonecrosis Associated with Antacid Therapy (Esomeprazole)

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is a known complication of high-dose bisphosphonate therapy.
• Other risk factors for ONJ are also recognized in clinical literature.
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly used for gastro-oesophageal reflux and may influence bone metabolism.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report an unusual case of osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ).
• To investigate a potential association between proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use and ONJ.

Main Methods:

• A case study of a patient treated with esomeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, is presented.
• Review of existing literature on osteonecrosis of the jaw and its associated risk factors.

Main Results:

• An unusual case of osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) occurred in a patient undergoing treatment with esomeprazole.
• This case suggests a potential, previously unreported association between PPIs and ONJ.

Conclusions:

• The findings suggest a probable association between proton pump inhibitor (PPI) intake and osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ).
• Clinicians should be alerted to this potential drug interaction.
• Collaboration between medical and dental professionals is crucial for early diagnosis and prevention of ONJ, minimizing morbidity from jaw bone lesions.