What potential side effect should be monitored for in a patient on systemic antifungals?

In patients receiving systemic antifungals, monitoring for hepatotoxicity is essential. Systemic antifungal medications, especially azoles such as ketoconazole and fluconazole, are known to impact liver function by potentially causing liver enzyme elevations or, in severe cases, leading to acute liver injury. Regular liver function tests help in identifying changes in enzyme levels, which can indicate developing hepatotoxicity.

The risk factors contributing to hepatotoxicity include existing liver disease, concurrent medications, and the duration of antifungal therapy. Timely recognition of hepatotoxicity can lead to interventions such as dose adjustment or discontinuation of the offending agent, thereby preventing severe complications.

While renal failure and skin discoloration can occur in different contexts with other medications, they are not as directly associated with systemic antifungal agents as hepatotoxicity. Breathing difficulties may occur in various clinical scenarios but are not a primary concern of systemic antifungal therapies. Thus, monitoring liver function is critical in patients undergoing treatment with systemic antifungals to ensure safety and efficacy.