Osteonecrosis is defined as non-vital bone tissue as a result of abnormal process of osseous healing, and is caused by several reasons such as infection, radiation, and medication. Osteomyelitis, osteoradionecrosis, and medication related osteonecrosis of the jaws (MRONJ) which have necrotic bone in common are confused clinically due to similar symptoms and radiographic findings, and are difficult to diagnose definitively. Because each disease represents a separate clinical progress and requires a different treatment approach, it is very important to distinguish each disease. The aim of this study was to analyze the histopathologic features of osteomyelitis, osteoradionecrosis, MRONJ and to understand their different pathogenesis.

• Tae Min You(Department of Advanced General Dentistry, Dental Hospital, Dankook University) | 유태민
• Hyun Sil Kim(Department of Oral Pathology, Oral Cancer Research Institute, College of Dentistry, Yonsei University) | 김현실 Correspondence