Blood Tests
Complete blood count with platelets, prior to therapy, monthly for the first 3 to 6 months, and then every 3 months
Liver Function
- Liver enzymes (AST, ALT, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin) should be checked prior to therapy, monthly for the first 3 to 6 months, and then every 3 months
- If liver function tests become abnormal, discontinuation of the drug should be considered
Lipoproteins
- Lipoproteins (triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL and HDL cholesterol) should be checked prior to therapy, monthly for the first 3 to 6 months, and then every 3 months
- If increased triglycerides or decreased HDL is found, dietary fat and alcohol should be restricted
Renal Function
- Tests Check blood urea nitrogen and creatinine prior to therapy, monthly for the first 3 to 6 months, and then every 3 months
- Optional urinalysis if patients have renal diseases, proteinuria, diabetes or hypertension
Pregnancy Test
Prior to therapy and monthly thereafter
Ophthalmologic Evaluation
May wish to consider baseline and yearly ophthalmologic evaluation if patient has a history of cataracts or retinotherapy or if the patient reports symptoms of pseudotumour cerebri, including headaches, blurred vision or nausea and vomiting
Bone X-rays
Consider baseline x-rays of wrists, ankles or thoracic spine (with yearly follow-up x-rays) if planning on long-term retinoid therapy
Bone Age Determination in Children
Evaluation should be done before therapy and yearly thereafter to assess epiphysical growth plates and evaluate the possibility of skeletal hyperostosis
