Ophthalmopathy

Definition

Ophthalmopathy is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the tissues around the eyes, leading to inflammation and swelling. It is commonly associated with Graves' disease.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ophthalmopathy primarily affects the muscles and fatty tissues around the eyes, causing symptoms such as bulging eyes (exophthalmos).
2. This condition is often linked to hyperthyroidism but can also occur in patients with normal thyroid function.
3. Patients may experience symptoms like eye pain, redness, double vision, and in severe cases, vision loss.
4. Diagnosis often involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies like CT or MRI scans, and blood tests for thyroid hormone levels.
5. Treatments can include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, orbital decompression surgery, or radiation therapy in severe cases.

Related terms

Autoimmune Disorder: A condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells.

Exophthalmos: Abnormal protrusion of the eyeball, commonly seen in ophthalmopathy.

Graves' Disease: An autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism and is often associated with ophthalmopathy.