Description
Thyroid-associated eye disease is an autoimmune disorder affecting the extra-ocular muscles. The relationship between the course of the ophthalmopathy and the course and the treatment of the underlying thyroid disease is unclear. In the majority of subjects the disease is mild but in a small number the disease is more severe requiring the combined care of both an endocrinologist and ophthalmologist. Management involves good control of the underlying thyroid disease, an objective assessment of the eye signs and specific treatment of the eye disease. Treatment modalities include steroids or other immunosuppressants, surgery or orbital radiotherapy.
