Which laboratory value should be monitored in a patient receiving long-term corticosteroid therapy?

Monitoring serum electrolytes in a patient receiving long-term corticosteroid therapy is essential due to the impact corticosteroids can have on the body's balance of electrolytes. Corticosteroids can lead to changes in the levels of sodium and potassium, potentially causing conditions such as hypernatremia and hypokalemia.

In long-term therapy, sodium retention can result in fluid retention and increased blood pressure, while low potassium levels can lead to muscle weakness, arrhythmias, and other complications. Therefore, regularly checking serum electrolytes allows healthcare providers to detect these imbalances early and adjust the treatment regimen or offer supportive measures to mitigate side effects associated with corticosteroid use.

The significance of monitoring serum electrolytes underpins the increased risk for these imbalances seen in patients taking corticosteroids, making it a critical aspect of their management during long-term therapy.