Graves' Disease

Graves' Disease > Understanding Graves' Disease > Introduction to Graves' Disease > Graves' Ophthalmopathy

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Introduction to Graves' Disease

Graves' Ophthalmopathy

Graves' ophthalmopathy occurs in approximately 50% of patients diagnosed with Graves' disease. It is associated with inflammation and edema in and behind the orbit, the bony cavity containing the eyeball. There is also an increase of connective tissue and fat around the eyes. This causes the eyeball to bulge (exophthalmos) since the excess of tissue, fat, and muscle pushes it out from behind.

The severity of Graves' ophthalmopathy is not related to the severity of hyperthyroidism or to the treatment of Graves' disease. Graves' disease does not necessarily improve the state of Graves' ophthalmopathy. Symptoms of Graves' ophthalmopathy usually appear within 12-18 months before or after being diagnosed with Graves' disease. Computerized tomography is the most effective modality for imaging any changes behind the eyes related to Graves' ophthalmopathy. Imaging studies may reveal subclinical signs of Graves' ophthalmopathy even before clinical symptoms appear.

Risk factors for Graves' ophthalmopathy include:

Male gender
Older age
Cigarette smoking
Diabetes

Next: Diagnosis of Graves' Disease

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