ABSTRACT
Patients should be monitored for adverse reactions related to antituberculous therapy and they should be instructed to watch for the common symptoms associated with adverse reactions to their specific medications. Frequent medical follow-up (monthly at least) is required. Baseline studies for all adults should include hepatic enzymes, bilirubin, creati nine, and complete blood count with platelet count. Serum uric acid measurement should be obtained if PZA is used. If ethambutol is used, baseline measurement of visual acuity and red-green color perception is necessary. When baseline studies are normal and no risk factors for toxicity exist, routine laboratory monitoring is not required. Additional testing may be necessary, however, to evaluate signs and symptoms of drug toxicity.
