[Endocrine ophthalmopathy. A visible psychophysical complaint].

BACKGROUND

Endocrine orbitopathy (Graves' disease) is an autoimmune disease based on a genetic predisposition. Patients with a visible exophthalmos were examined and treated in the department of ophthalmology.

OBJECTIVES

Is there an association between the formation of exophthalmos and life situations and events?

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 64 patients with exophthalmos due to Graves' disease were asked to complete a questionnaire to evaluate psychosocial morbidity, the quality of life, social background and stressful life events.

RESULTS

The results revealed that 60% of the participants had experienced stressful life events (e.g. workplace, parents, children and partner), mainly bereavement in the months before onset of the disease. The psychosocial background revealed that they were predominantly from a low social status and lived in unsatisfactory employment, partner and environmental conditions.

CONCLUSION

Graves' disease is an autoimmune disease and is substantially triggered by psychosocial factors. The necessary interdisciplinary therapy should include medical psychotherapy.