Abstract. The onset of Grave’s ophthalmopathy is in most cases concomitant with the onset of hyperthyroidism. Grave’s ophthalmopathy and Graves’ hyperthyroidism are closely associated and thought to be caused by thyrotropin receptor antibodies. Here we will show a patient with Grave’s ophthalmopathy demonstrated by magnetic resonance imaging, but who showed normal thyroid hormone and thyrotoropin levels and the absence of thyrotropin receptor antibodies. Interestingly, the patient was seen on two occasions 10 years apart with a similar clinical presentation. During the patient’s second evaluation, she was found to be positive for thyroid stimulating antibodies; this was the only indication for diagnosing the patient as having Graves’ disease.

Keywords • Grave’s ophthalmopathy • Hyperthyroidism • Thyrotropin receptor antibody • Thyroid stimulating antibody

Citation: Yanai, H. and and Yamazaki, H.: Grave’s ophthalmopathy in the absence of abnormal thyroid hormone and thyrotropin levels and thyrotropin receptor antibody. Thyroid Science, 6(1):1-3, 2011.

Full Text Free (pdf)

© 2011 Thyroid Science