Prior to starting oral isotretinoin, which tests should be checked?

Prior to initiating oral isotretinoin therapy, it is essential to ensure safety through proper screening tests. The correct answer emphasizes the necessity of a pregnancy test, liver function tests (LFTs), and a fasting lipid panel.

Firstly, a pregnancy test is critical because isotretinoin is highly teratogenic, meaning it can cause severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Therefore, establishing that a female patient is not pregnant is a priority before starting treatment.

Secondly, liver function tests are important since isotretinoin can affect liver enzymes. Monitoring LFTs helps ensure that the patient's liver can tolerate the medication without developing toxicity or other complications.

Lastly, a fasting lipid panel is essential to assess cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Isotretinoin can increase lipids, leading to potentially serious complications like pancreatitis. Monitoring these levels allows for timely intervention should the patient's lipid profile worsen.

These tests together help ensure that the patient can safely commence isotretinoin treatment and allows for a baseline comparison for future monitoring during therapy.