Thyroid eye disease diagnosis

To determine if thyroid function is normal, levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and active thyroid hormones are measured. These laboratory studies are essential for diagnosis; however, even if they are negative, orbital disease cannot be ruled out.

Additional ophthalmological tests, such as Hertel exophthalmometry, Optical Coherence Tomography of the nerve fibre layer and visual field assessment are also useful.

Imaging tests, such as tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, are not essential, but they can be useful in some cases when optic neuropathy is suspected or when planning orbital surgery.