What is a key monitoring parameter in ESA treatment?

In the context of treating with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs), monitoring blood pressure is particularly crucial. ESAs promote the production of red blood cells, which can lead to increases in blood viscosity and, consequently, changes in blood pressure. Patients receiving ESAs are at risk for hypertension due to increased blood cell mass, which can result in serious cardiovascular complications if not managed adequately. Monitoring blood pressure allows healthcare providers to detect and address potentially harmful increases in blood pressure early in treatment.

Other parameters such as blood glucose levels, body temperature, and heart rate are important in patient management but are not as directly linked specifically to ESA therapy. While they provide crucial information about a patient's overall health and response to treatment, they do not have the same level of critical relevance as blood pressure does in the context of ESA administration.