American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

How often should serum aminotransferase levels be monitored for patients on interferon beta for multiple sclerosis?

1. Every month

2. Every 3 to 6 months

3. Once a year

4. Only when symptoms develop

The correct answer is: Every 3 to 6 months

Monitoring serum aminotransferase levels in patients receiving interferon beta for multiple sclerosis is important to identify potential hepatotoxicity early. The recommendation to check these levels every 3 to 6 months is based on the safety profile of interferon beta, which has been associated with liver enzyme elevations. This frequency strikes a balance between vigilance for possible liver injury and the practicality of patient management. By monitoring every 3 to 6 months, healthcare providers can detect any significant changes in liver function early, allowing for timely intervention if necessary, such as dose adjustment or discontinuation of the medication. This approach is especially relevant considering that many patients may be asymptomatic even when liver enzyme levels are elevated. Monitoring once a year or only when symptoms develop would not provide sufficient oversight, as liver damage could progress unnoticed, leading to adverse consequences. Monthly monitoring may lead to unnecessary patient burden and might not yield significantly better outcomes compared to the recommended interval. Overall, the 3 to 6 month interval for monitoring aligns with established guidelines and clinical practices for patients on interferon beta therapy for multiple sclerosis, ensuring patient safety while maintaining effective treatment regimens.