Graves' Disease
Alternate Names : Diffuse Thyrotoxic Goiter
Pictures & Images
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Endocrine Glands
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Endocrine glands release hormones (chemical messengers) into the bloodstream to be transported to various organs and tissues throughout the body. For instance, the pancreas secretes insulin, which allows the body to regulate levels of sugar in the blood. The thyroid gets instructions from the pituitary to secrete hormones which determine the pace of chemical activity in the body (the more hormone in the bloodstream, the faster the chemical activity; the less hormone, the slower the activity).
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Thyroid Enlargement - Scintiscan
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This special scan (scintiscan) shows enlargement of the thyroid gland and extension behind the breastbone (retrosternal space). The false color image was generated by a computer during a radioisotope (I-131) thyroid scan.
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Graves' Disease
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Graves' disease is thought to be an autoimmune disorder of the thyroid which causes over-production of thyroid hormones. Hallmarks of the condition are bulging eyes (exophthalmos), heat intolerance, increased energy, difficulty sleeping, diarrhea and anxiety.
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Thyroid Gland
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The thyroid gland , a part of the endocrine (hormone ) system, plays a major role in regulating the body's metabolism.
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