Eye Changes With Thyroid Disease

Abstract

Hypothyroidism occasionally produces periorbital myxedema, while hyperthyroidism can lead to exophthalmos. In the latter condition, the patient's upper lids retract, his lids lag when he gazes down, and he blinks infrequently. In its severe form—endocrine exophthalmos—the eyes may bulge forward so much that corneal exposure occurs, leading to possible infection, perforation and loss of an eye.