Bisphosphonates have become important tools for the treatment of bone lesions from various solid
tumors or from
multiple myeloma. Management of bone health in patients with malignant
bone disease from
breast cancer,
prostate cancer,
lung cancer, and
multiple myeloma was discussed in clinical case workshops held during the ZENITH meeting (April 2007, Prague, Czech Republic). Physicians in attendance were generally in agreement that
bisphosphonate therapy is recommended for treatment of bone
metastases and that treatment should be sustained over the duration of
disease progression. Consensus is still evolving regarding the optimal
duration of therapy and the emerging role of
bisphosphonates in the management of bone loss in the adjuvant setting.
Bisphosphonates have proven efficacy in reducing and delaying skeletal-related events in patients with bone
metastases, and play a key role in preserving patient functional independence and quality of life. Furthermore,
bisphosphonate therapy is a cost-effective strategy in the care of patients with bone
metastases compared with the cost of treatment for fractures and other skeletal complications. Finally, communication with patients is critical to increase awareness of the benefits of
bisphosphonate therapy. Increased patient involvement with treatment decisions will likely encourage patient compliance and thereby maximize clinical benefit from
bisphosphonate therapy.