Which statement about hydroxychloroquine monitoring is true?

Which statement about hydroxychloroquine monitoring is true?

• A. Eye examination is unnecessary.
• B. Liver function tests weekly.
• C. An eye examination is recommended every 6-12 months.
• D. No monitoring is required.

Answer: (C)

Regular comprehensive eye monitoring is necessary with hydroxychloroquine because long-term use can cause retinal toxicity that may progress silently until vision is affected. Because of this risk, an eye examination should be done before starting therapy and then at regular intervals during treatment. A common and widely recommended interval is every 6 to 12 months, with more frequent screening considered if risk factors are present (such as higher daily dose, longer duration of use, renal impairment, or preexisting retinal disease). The other statements aren’t accurate: routine liver function tests aren’t required weekly for hydroxychloroquine, and claiming no monitoring is needed or that eye exams aren’t necessary contradicts the known ophthalmic risks.

Regular comprehensive eye monitoring is necessary with hydroxychloroquine because long-term use can cause retinal toxicity that may progress silently until vision is affected. Because of this risk, an eye examination should be done before starting therapy and then at regular intervals during treatment. A common and widely recommended interval is every 6 to 12 months, with more frequent screening considered if risk factors are present (such as higher daily dose, longer duration of use, renal impairment, or preexisting retinal disease). The other statements aren’t accurate: routine liver function tests aren’t required weekly for hydroxychloroquine, and claiming no monitoring is needed or that eye exams aren’t necessary contradicts the known ophthalmic risks.