The Role of Non-Surgical Management in Dysthyroid Orbitopathy

Dysthyroid orbitopathy (thyroid-associated orbitopathy or Graves' ophthalmopathy) is the most common cause of both unilateral and bilateral proptosis in adults. This proptosis is usually accompanied by eyelid retraction, orbital congestion or motility disturbances. Each patient experiences a unique combination of symptoms and signs for an unpredictable duration and with varying severity. Although orbital manifestations typically improve within 2-5 years, visual loss due to optic nerve compression does occur. Careful observation and reassurance are helpful and often adequate, but judicious medical and surgical intervention is essential in some patients to prevent irreversible visual loss.