Hyaluronic acid in localized myxedema.

Abstract

The localized myxedema lesions of Graves' disease contained acid mucopolysaccharides which were 6–16 times the normal skin concentration, and which were composed almost completely, if not entirely, of hyaluronic acid. This observation contrasts with previous reports which have suggested that other mucopolysaccharide polymers were important constituents in this disorder. It is proposed that the manifestations of Graves' disease, other than those induced by hyperthyroidism, have a common biochemical disturbance resulting in increased tissue hyaluronic acid.