PATHOGENESIS OF THYROID-ASSOCIATED OPHTHALMOPATHY

Thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy is a complex disease whose pathogene sis is thought to be autoimmune. Evidence has accumulated to implicate lymphocytes, antibodies, and cytokines targeting the orbital tissues whose structural and functional characteristics are unique. Epitope sh aring between the orbit and the thyroid is the likely explanation for the close association of ophthalmopathy with autoimmune thyroid diseas e. Environmental and other nonautoimmune factors are identified that a lso play a part in the initiation or perpetuation of the disease proce ss.