bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis

(bis-fos-FOH-nayt-uh-SOH-see-ay-ted OS-tee-oh-neh-KROH-sis) The necrosis (death) of bone tissue caused by treatment with a bisphosphonate (a drug or substance used to treat osteoporosis, bone pain caused by some types of cancer, and high blood calcium). It commonly occurs in the jaw bones. There may be pain, swelling and infection in the areas of necrosis. Also called BON.