Abstract
BackgroundThyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO) is the most common extrathyroidal complication of Graves’ disease. The disease course ranges from mild, where symptomatic therapy is sufficient, to severe, where high dose steroid administration or orbital decompression surgery is required. Women of their reproductive age are more likely to be affected. Although pregnancy is a state of enhanced immune tolerance, TAO may develop or worsen in 0.2–0.4% of pregnant women.Case presentationWe present the case of a 19-year-old woman who has developed hyperthyroidism and progressive TAO during the second trimester of her third pregnancy, which has improved postpartum. The possible mechanisms and the importance of follow up in pregnancy is discussed.ConclusionsExpectant mothers with Graves’ disease require follow up of eye signs throughout pregnancy, preferably in the setting of a thyroid-eye clinic.
Highlights
Thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO) is the most common extrathyroidal complication of Graves’ disease
According to a recent review by Chin et al in approximately 40% of the cases Graves’ disease (GD) is accompanied by thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO) [5]
We present a case of GD with TAO, which developed in the second trimester of pregnancy
Summary
Thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO) is the most common extrathyroidal complication of Graves’ disease. We present a case of GD with TAO, which developed in the second trimester of pregnancy. Case presentation A 19-year-old pregnant woman has been referred to our department during her 3rd pregnancy for GD and newonset TAO.
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