In terms of treatment, which aspect is crucial for following up on a patient using INH?

In terms of treatment, which aspect is crucial for following up on a patient using INH?

• A. Monthly psychological assessments
• B. Routine liver function tests
• C. Daily dietary reviews
• D. Frequent imaging tests

Answer: (B)

Routine liver function tests are crucial for monitoring a patient on INH, or isoniazid, due to the potential for hepatotoxicity associated with its use. Isoniazid is an effective antibiotic for treating tuberculosis, but one of its side effects can be liver damage, which is particularly of concern in patients who may already have underlying liver conditions or those who consume alcohol regularly. Regular liver function tests help in early detection of any liver injury, allowing for timely intervention that could prevent serious complications. While psychological assessments, dietary reviews, and frequent imaging tests are relevant aspects of patient care, they do not specifically address the critical risk of liver toxicity which can arise from isoniazid treatment. Monitoring liver function is a targeted measure that ensures the safe administration of this medication and is a standard practice in managing patients undergoing therapy with isoniazid.

Routine liver function tests are crucial for monitoring a patient on INH, or isoniazid, due to the potential for hepatotoxicity associated with its use. Isoniazid is an effective antibiotic for treating tuberculosis, but one of its side effects can be liver damage, which is particularly of concern in patients who may already have underlying liver conditions or those who consume alcohol regularly. Regular liver function tests help in early detection of any liver injury, allowing for timely intervention that could prevent serious complications.

While psychological assessments, dietary reviews, and frequent imaging tests are relevant aspects of patient care, they do not specifically address the critical risk of liver toxicity which can arise from isoniazid treatment. Monitoring liver function is a targeted measure that ensures the safe administration of this medication and is a standard practice in managing patients undergoing therapy with isoniazid.