Postpartum proptosis with ophthalmopathy.
BACKGROUND
Postpartum thyroid disease presents in two forms: postpartum thyroiditis (PPT) and postpartum Graves' disease (PPGD).


METHODS
A case of postpartum thyroid dysfunction with ophthalmopathy is presented.


CONCLUSIONS
In women diagnosed with Graves' disease during the ages of 20 to 35 years, 66% have a postpartum onset; women with a previous history of Graves' disease frequently relapse in the postpartum period. Additionally, up to 25 to 30% of postpartum women can develop permanent hypothyroidism from postpartum thyroiditis. The signs and symptoms of PPT and PPGD may be indefinite after delivery and often go undiagnosed. Because complications can be significant and may become irreversible, proper diagnosis and timely treatment is important.
Illinois College of Optometry, Chicago, 60616-3816, USA.
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HF
Ford
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Spies
D000328:Adult; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006111:Graves Disease / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006801:Humans; D011644:Puerperal Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis*