The effect of denosumab vs. zoledronic acid in preventing skeletal-related events, including pain-related bone metastasis: a systematic review.

Purpose: Skeletal-related events (SREs) are common complications of bone metastases that include the need for radiation or surgery to bone, pathological and radiological fractures, and hypercalcemia. Available data indicate that significant bone pain is associated with SREs, leading to an increased risk of death, higher medication costs, and reduced quality of life for patients. Bisphosphonate agents and denosumab are therapeutic options for preventing SREs in advanced cancer patients with bone metastases.