CT imaging in bisphosphonate-associated mandibular osteonecrosis: case report, pathological correlates, and review of literature

摘要

Osteonecrosis of the jaw is a severe bone disease that occurs as a result of reduced local blood supply. Bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis of the jaw usually occurs following dental procedures. We report clinical and radiological findings in a case of mandibular osteonecrosis associated with the use of bisphosphonate; the mandibular osteonecrosis was undiagnosed prior to cross-sectional imaging with computed tomography. The radiological correlation to the underlying pathological process and a correlative assessment of history, clinical, and imaging findings enabled the diagnosis. A discussion of differential diagnoses is provided to alert the oral radiologist to the presence of this condition in cases with typical imaging findings. The literature on indications for advanced imaging is reviewed to simplify the selection of the appropriate imaging modality for mandibular osteonecrosis.