I am learning about endocrinology now. I just wonder if there is any specific mechanism why hyperthyroodism cause the eyes to protrude. Or is it just a bizarre symptome that we have to know wthout needing to understand?
2007-07-23 01:41:59 · 2 answers · asked by Fiffy Ferrari 2 in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Other - Diseases
Hyperthyroidism does not cause the eyes to bulge (called exopthalmus). Exophthalmus is a sign of Graves' Disease. Graves' Disease also has a sign of hyperthyroidism associated with it. Exophthalmos that is frequently encountered has been explained by postulating that the thyroid gland and the extraocular muscles share a common antigen which is recognized by the antibodies. Antibodies binding to the extraocular muscles would cause swelling behind the eyeball. The antibodies are associated with the autoimmune disease, Graves' Disease.
2007-07-23 01:51:24 · answer #1 · answered by clevelandbrownsgirl2007 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am not sure if the exact cause is known. But the intra orbital fat tissue either swells or hypertrophies, causing the bulging of the eyes.
2007-07-23 01:52:36 · answer #2 · answered by greydoc6 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋