EXOPHTHALMIC GOITRE Meaning and
Definition
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Exophthalmic goitre, also known as Graves' disease, is a medical condition characterized by the enlargement of the thyroid gland in the neck combined with the protrusion of the eyeballs. It is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the cells of the thyroid gland, causing it to produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormones. This condition predominantly affects women between the ages of 20 and 40.
The term exophthalmic refers to the bulging or protrusion of the eyes, known as proptosis, which is a hallmark symptom of this condition. The enlarged thyroid gland, called a goitre, can lead to a variety of symptoms, including weight loss, increased appetite, palpitations, sweating, anxiety, tremors, fatigue, and changes in menstrual patterns.
Exophthalmic goitre is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. It is thought to be triggered by a malfunction in the immune system, which leads to the production of antibodies that stimulate the thyroid gland. These antibodies bind to the receptors in the eye tissues as well, causing inflammation and subsequent protrusion.
Treatment for exophthalmic goitre typically involves a combination of medication and, in severe cases, surgical intervention. Medications aim to regulate the production of thyroid hormones and manage the symptoms. In some cases, radioactive iodine therapy or surgery may be necessary to reduce the size of the thyroid gland or address eye protrusion.
Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional is crucial for managing exophthalmic goitre, as the condition can have long-term effects on the thyroid function and eye health.
Common Misspellings for EXOPHTHALMIC GOITRE
- wxophthalmic goitre
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Etymology of EXOPHTHALMIC GOITRE
The word "exophthalmic goitre" is derived from two Greek terms: "exophthalmos" and "goitre".
1. "Exophthalmos" (ἔξωθαλμος): This word consists of "exō" (ἔξω), meaning "outside" or "outward", and "ophthalmos" (ὀφθαλμός), meaning "eye". So, "exophthalmos" refers to the abnormal bulging or protrusion of the eyeballs.
2. "Goitre" (γοίτρα): The word "goitre" comes from the Greek word "gogkhros" (γόγχρος), meaning "throat" or "gullet". It refers to the swelling or enlargement of the thyroid gland, which is located in the neck region.
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