Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid and causes it to malfunction. Untreated, it can be fatal. What are the symptoms? What treatments should be implemented?
Graves’ disease affects approximately 5 women for every 1 man. A genetic background can predispose to developing this thyroid dysfunction. Former Prime Minister Lionel Jospin, who died on March 22, 2026, suffered from it. What test to diagnose it? Can Graves’ disease be cured? With what treatments? We asked these questions to Dr Magali Cocaul, endocrinologist in Paris.
Definition: what is Graves’ disease?
“Graves’ disease is hyperthyroidism of autoimmune origin. We produce antibodies against ourselves”, summarizes Dr Magali Cocaul, endocrinologist in Paris. Normally, the thyroid, which is a gland essential to the functioning of the human body, produces hormones that regulate the body: energy, heart rate, temperature. In Graves’ disease, the immune system malfunctions and attacks the thyroid. Its functioning is racing and it begins to produce hormones in excessive quantities, hence the term hyperthyroidism. At the same time, the size of the gland increases.
What are the symptoms of Graves’ disease?
The symptoms are the same as those of hyperthyroidism, associated, in typical forms, with an enlargement of the thyroid (goiter) and ocular manifestations. Or, possibly:
- tachycardia, weight loss, feeling hot, restlessness, tremors etc.
- mass in the lower part of the neck, a sign of an enlarged thyroid
- the impression that the eyes are coming out of the sockets, due to inflammation of the underlying muscles: this is called exophthalmos.
Graves’ disease is due to the production of autoantibodies, which will stimulate the thyroid gland. Like all autoimmune diseases, a genetic background can predispose you to developing the disease. “We thus have families with autoimmune dysfunctions”, explains Dr Cocaul André. Furthermore, the environment is suspected of playing an important role in the emergence of autoimmune pathologies. “The number of these pathologies has exploded: endocrine disruptors could be partly responsible.”
What test is needed to diagnose Graves’ disease?
Graves’ disease is detected biologically by a blood test which aims to measure thyroid hormones and detect the presence of antibodies. We can also use imaging, through ultrasound or sometimes scintigraphy, an examination to observe the fixation of iodine on the thyroid.
What are the treatments for Graves’ disease?
Several types of treatment exist:
► The first, medicinal, preserves the thyroid by regulating its functioning in order to relieve the patient and prevent disorders such as tachycardia which can cause serious heart failure. This treatment consists of taking a synthetic antithyroid drug for a long time (or even for life).
► In the event of recurrence, either conservative treatment is continued, or surgical removal of the thyroid may be considered. This radical option then requires taking thyroid hormones for life. “It is very rare to propose surgery straight away”explains Dr. Cocaul.
► Also in the event of a recurrence, radioactive iodine can be used which destroys part of the gland (not recommended for pregnant women).
Can we die from it?
Yes but it is very rare. The main risk of Graves’ disease is called a thyrotoxic crisis (or “thyroid storm”). It is an emergency situation where the body is completely “excited”: very fast or even irregular heart, high fever
extreme agitation, confusion, organ failure. Without prompt treatment, it can be fatal. Furthermore, if the disease is not treated, it causes heart problems (heart failure, rhythm disorders), eye complications and weakens the bones.
When to consult for Graves’ disease?
It is necessary to consult your doctor as soon as the first symptoms appear. “As soon as you feel an abnormal state, you must consult your general practitioner, who will, if necessary, refer your patient to an endocrinologist, a specialty that treats Graves’ disease and other thyroid pathologies.”
Thanks to Dr Magali Cocaul, endocrinologist in Paris.
