Graves disease is

Appeared in: UPPSC 2022

Explanation

Graves' disease is the most common cause of endogenous hyperthyroidism, which means the thyroid gland is overactive.
It is an autoimmune disorder where the body produces antibodies known as Thyroid-Stimulating Immunoglobulins (TSI).
These TSI antibodies mimic the action of Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH), binding to receptors on the thyroid gland and causing it to produce and secrete excessive amounts of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4).

Option B: Hypothyroidism is the opposite of hyperthyroidism. It is a state of an underactive thyroid gland, leading to decreased production of thyroid hormones.
Option C: Euthyroidism refers to the state of having normal thyroid gland function. Graves' disease is a state of dysfunction.
Option D: This option is incorrect because one of the choices, Hyperthyroidism, accurately describes the state caused by Graves' disease.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Pathophysiology and classification of Graves' disease helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Nurses must monitor patients with Graves' disease for signs of thyroid storm (thyrotoxic crisis), a life-threatening emergency characterized by high fever, extreme tachycardia, and altered mental status.
Patient education is a key nursing role, focusing on medication adherence (e.g., antithyroid drugs), symptom management, and the importance of regular follow-up to monitor thyroid function.
For patients with exophthalmos, nurses should teach eye care measures, such as using artificial tears, wearing sunglasses, and sleeping with the head elevated to reduce periorbital edema.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question, which is 'Graves disease'.
This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of common endocrine disorders.
Recall the definition of Graves' disease. It is an autoimmune condition affecting the thyroid.
Consider the effect of the disease on thyroid function. Does it make the thyroid overactive or underactive?
Evaluate the given options: Hyperthyroidism (overactive), Hypothyroidism (underactive), and Euthyroidism (normal function).
Connect the pathophysiology of Graves' disease (stimulation by autoantibodies) to the resulting functional state, which is an overproduction of hormones, correctly identifying it as Hyperthyroidism.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 2 p. 1222-1224

E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 1 Part 4 p. 20-22

E6 Pathology- ROBBINS & COTRAN PATHOLOGIC BASIS OF DISEASE 10TH Ed p. 1080-1082

Practise the full UPPSC 2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.