Overview
Graves' disease is an autoimmune condition that affects the function of the thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland in the lower neck. The thyroid makes hormones that help regulate a wide variety of critical body functions including growth and development, body temperature, heart rate, menstrual cycles, and weight.
In people with Graves' disease, the immune system creates an antibody called thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) that signals the thyroid to increase its production of hormones abnormally. This overactivity of the thyroid (hyperthyroidism) causes many of the signs and symptoms of the disease.
The condition usually appears in mid-adulthood, although it may occur at any age. Between 25 and 50 percent of people with Graves' disease develop eye abnormalities known as Graves' ophthalmopathy. People with Graves' disease also have an increased risk of developing other autoimmune disorders.
Signs & Symptoms
Causes & Risk Factors
Diagnosis
Graves' disease is diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, a review of symptoms and medical history, and laboratory tests.
A key diagnostic tool is autoantibody testing, which checks a blood sample for the presence of thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI). Other tests may include a radioactive iodine uptake test to measure how much iodine the thyroid gland is taking up, and thyroid hormone level tests (TSH, T3, and T4).
Treatment Options
Important Facts
Graves' disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism.
Between 25 and 50 percent of people with Graves' disease develop eye abnormalities.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long-term complications including heart problems and bone loss.
People with Graves' disease have an increased risk of developing other autoimmune disorders.
Medical information adapted from MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine. Always consult with your physician for personalized medical advice.
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