Which laboratory tests are typically required before administering alkylating agents and nitrosoureas?

Alkylating agents and nitrosoureas are types of chemotherapy that can have significant effects on the kidneys, so monitoring renal function is crucial before their administration. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels are standard tests used to evaluate kidney function. Elevated levels of these substances can indicate impaired kidney function, which may necessitate adjusting the dose of chemotherapy or considering alternative treatment options to prevent toxicity.

BUN and creatinine measurements provide essential information about the patient's ability to filter and excrete waste products, which is particularly important when using agents that can be nephrotoxic. By ensuring that renal function is adequate, healthcare providers can help mitigate the risk of adverse effects associated with these potent chemotherapeutic agents.

While liver function tests, a complete metabolic panel, and PT/INR are important in the consideration of overall patient health and the effects of other treatments, they are not specifically required as part of the baseline evaluation before administering alkylating agents and nitrosoureas. Thus, assessing kidney function through BUN and creatinine is the critical factor in this context.