Modern View on the Etiology and Pathogenesis of Endocrine Ophthalmopathy

Abstract

Endocrine ophthalmopathy (EOP) is an autoimmune progressing pathology, which in most cases is associated with Graves’ disease (GD), but also occurs in patients with autoimmune thyroiditis and euthyroidism without symptoms of thyroid disease. Despite the existence of the proven interconnection between thyroid pathology and EOP, the mechanisms of its pathogenesis have not been studied completely. The article covers the modern theories of etiology and pathogenesis, genetic predisposition to the development of EOP, the risk factors, features of the clinical course and major complications of this pathology. EOP may cause significant loss of visual acuity and lead to disability, so only the multidisciplinary approach, timely diagnosis and treatment may prevent the complications and preserve the quality of life of patients.