[Means syndrome. 8 cases].
BACKGROUND
Euthyroid Graves' disease is defined as an ophthalmopathy without dysthyroidism. We report 8 cases in 6 women and 2 men with an average follow-up of 16 months after diagnosis.


METHODS
Unilateral ex-opythalmos was the first and most frequent sign. Ultrasonographic and immunological thyroid abnormalities were frequent but of questionable significance. Thyroid hormone levels continued to remain normal. The orbital CT-scan, used to screen for infra-clinical exophthalmos, evidenced focal or diffuse hypertrophy of the extraocular muscles and normal tendon insertions. More than 3 years after diagnosis, only one patient developed overt Graves' disease and clinical signs resolved spontaneously in one other.


CONCLUSIONS
In mild to moderate forms of euthyroid Grave's disease, therapeutic abstention is advisable. Corticosteroids and orbital radiotherapy are interesting options in functionally disabling forms. Decompressive surgery is rarely needed.
Defuentes
G
G
Service d'Endocrinologie, Hôpital d'Instruction des Armées Bégin, 69, avenue de Paris, F94160 Saint-Mandé.
Mayaudon
H
H
Bordier
L
L
Fabre
R
R
Dupuy
O
O
Sarret
D
D
Crépy
P
P
Bauduceau
B
B
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005094:Exophthalmos / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006111:Graves Disease / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013577:Syndrome; D013960:Thyroid Function Tests; D013997:Time Factors