What is Graves-Basedow Disease?
Graves-Basedow Disease (GBD) is the most common form of autoimmune hyperthyroidism, in which the thyroid is activated by antibodies that stimulate the thyroid hormone-producing cells. In addition to causing hyperthyroidism and diffuse enlargement of the thyroid gland, this disease typically affects the eyes and, in some cases, also the skin.
Graves’ Disease explained in first person
It is a rare but well-understood condition, and we can treat it.
GBD is caused by antibodies that bind to and activate the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptor, anti-TSH receptor antibody (TRAb) or thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI). This activation stimulates an enlargement (hypertrophy) and excess (hyperplasia) of thyroid cells by increasing the production of the hormones T3 and T4.
How many people are affected?
Graves' disease accounts for 60-80% of all causes of thyrotoxicosis (excess thyroid hormones in the blood), varying according to the population studied. It is more prevalent in women (10:1) and has a peak incidence between the ages of 40-60.
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Published: 11 June 2021
Updated: 11 June 2021
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