Graves Disease Flashcards
What is Graves’ disease?
Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
What leads to excessive thyroid production in graves disease?
The immune system mistakenly produces thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI), which mimic TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). This leads to excessive thyroid hormone production and thyroid enlargement (goiter).
What are 3 causes of Graves disease?
- Autoimmune attack: The body mistakenly targets the thyroid.
- Genetic factors: Family history increases risk.
- Environmental triggers: Stress, smoking, infections, or pregnancy.
What percent of patients that have hyperthyroidism is caused by graves disease?
75%
What are general symptoms of Graves disease?
feeling nervous or anxious
difficulty sleeping
feeling irritable or having mood swings
being thirstier than usual
needing to pee more frequently
tiredness
muscle weakness
diarrhoea
feeling itchy
losing interest in sex
What eye symptoms are experienced in Graves disease?
dry or gritty eyes
eye irritation
redness
swelling or puffiness of eyelids
bulging eyes
double vision
pressure behind the eyes
constant tearing
photophobia (extreme sensitivity to light)
What skin condition can people with graves disease have?
Graves’ Dermopathy (Rare Skin Condition):
Thick, red, swollen skin (usually on the shins)
How is graves diseases investigated?
✔ Blood Tests: High T3/T4, low TSH, positive TSI antibodies.
✔ Thyroid Ultrasound: Detects thyroid enlargement.
✔ Radioactive Iodine Uptake Scan: Confirms increased iodine absorption.
What are the 4 treatment options for graves disease?
Anti-thyroid Medications (Methimazole or Propylthiouracil) – Blocks thyroid hormone production.
Radioactive Iodine Therapy (RAI) – Destroys overactive thyroid cells.
Beta-Blockers (e.g., Propranolol) – Manages symptoms like rapid heart rate.
Surgery (Thyroidectomy) – Removes part or all of the thyroid in severe cases.
What are 3 complications of graves disease if untreated?
Thyroid storm (life-threatening hyperthyroidism crisis)
Heart problems (atrial fibrillation, heart failure)
Severe eye complications
What is the difference between graves disease and hyperthyroidism?
Graves’ disease is a specific cause of hyperthyroidism (autoimmune).
Hyperthyroidism is a broader term for an overactive thyroid, which can be caused by Graves’ disease, nodules, thyroiditis, or excessive iodine intake.
