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Sulfasalazine monitoring — SCE Rheumatology MCQ

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ModerateRheumatological pharmacologySulfasalazine monitoringSCE Rheumatology

A 38-year-old man with peripheral spondyloarthritis starts sulfasalazine. Examination shows baseline blood tests are normal. Investigations show he asks what early monitoring is needed. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: A — Serial FBC and LFT monitoring

Regular FBC and LFT monitoring during dose escalation is the safest management step for this treatment-related scenario. The alternatives either continue a potentially harmful drug, omit essential monitoring, or address the wrong risk. Shared-care DMARD prescribing depends on clear monitoring thresholds and rapid communication with rheumatology.

Reference: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/conditions-and-diseases/musculoskeletal-conditions