Relationship between serum cholesterol and Graves' orbitopathy (GO): a confirmatory study

Lipid Profile Evolution in Graves' Disease Treated with Titration Regimen of Anti-Thyroid Drugs Versus Block and Replace Regimen

The aim was to compare the lipid profile of patients with GD treated with anti-thyroid drugs (ATDs) using a titration regimen versus a block and replace regimen. This is an 18-month prospective observational study. In this study were included 149 medically treated GD patients, aged+>+18 years. Pregnant women and patients treated with radioactive iodine therapy or partial/total thyroidectomy were excluded. Patients were divided into 2 subgroups: titration (A) and block and replace (B) therapy, according to the ATD regimen used. Thyroid and metabolic profile was measured at baseline and at least one visit during medical treatment. The whole group included 122 (81.87%) females (F) and 27 (18.12%) males (M), ratio F:M=4.5:1. As expected, at the time of diagnosis, thyrotoxic patients were with normal lipid profile. During medical treatment, in patients who achieved euthyroidism, the cholesterol levels increased as follows: in subgroup A: by 52.9 mg/dl (95% CI: 26.4-79.3), p<0.001 for total cholesterol (T-C), by 33.3 mg/dl (95% CI: 10.3-56.3), p=0.007 for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and by 11.44 mg/dl (95% CI: 3.08-19.79), p=0.009 for high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C); in subgroup B T-C increased by 45.1 mg/dl (95% CI: 22.2-68), p<0.001 and for LDL-C by 33.57 mg/dl (95% CI: 12.72-54.42), p=0.003. No statistically significant increase in triglyceride levels was determined. Medical treatment of hyperthyroidism due to Graves' disease increased cholesterol levels regardless of the ATD regimen used.

A combined transcriptomics and proteomics approach reveals S100A4 as a potential biomarker for Graves' orbitopathy

Background

There are no reliable biomarkers to identify Graves' disease patients who will develop severe Graves' orbitopathy (GO). We hypothesize that integrating various omics platforms can enhance our understanding of disease mechanisms and uncover potential biomarkers. This study aimed to (1) elucidate the differential gene expression profile of orbital fibroblasts in GO during early adipogenesis to better understand disease mechanisms and (2) compare tear protein profiles from our earlier study and the transcriptome profiles of orbital fibroblasts (OFs) to identify possible biomarkers of the disease.

Methods

OFs were grown from orbital adipose tissue obtained from nine GO patients (three for discovery and six for validation experiments). Total RNA was extracted from OFs on day 0 as the baseline for each sample and from differentiated OFs on days 4 and 8. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis and functional enrichment analysis were also carried out. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from the RNA sequencing experiments were then compared to the full tear proteome profile from the author's previous study, which examined the tear protein changes of GO patients based on fold change > 1.6 or < -1.6. FDR < 0.05 was applied within all datasets. Further validation of S100 calcium-binding protein A4 (S100A4) downregulation in GO was performed via quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR).

Results

The whole transcriptomic analysis revealed 9 upregulated genes and 15 downregulated genes in common between the discovery and validation experiments. From the PPI network analysis, an interaction network containing six identified DEGs (ALDH2, MAP2K6, MT2A, SOCS3, S100A4, and THBD) was observed. The functional enrichment network analysis identified a set of genes related to oxysterol production. S100A4 was found to be consistently downregulated in both our transcriptome studies and the full-tear proteome profile from the author's previous study.

Conclusion

Our study identified several DEGs and potential gene pathways in GO patients, which concurred with the results of other studies. Tear S100A4 may serve as a biomarker for the propensity to develop thyroid eye disease (TED) in patients with autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) before clinical manifestation and should be confirmed in future studies.

Graves disease: latest understanding of pathogenesis and treatment options

Graves disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in iodine-sufficient areas. The main responsible mechanism is related to autoantibodies that bind and activate the thyrotropin receptor (TSHR). Although Graves hyperthyroidism is relatively common, no causal treatment options are available. Established treatment modalities are antithyroid drugs, which reduce thyroid hormone synthesis, radioactive iodine and surgery. However, emerging drugs that target the main autoantigen (monoclonal antibodies, small molecules, peptides) or block the immune pathway have been recently tested in clinical trials. Graves disease can involve the thyroid exclusively or it can be associated with extrathyroidal manifestations, among which Graves orbitopathy is the most common. The presence of Graves orbitopathy can change the management of the disease. An established treatment for moderate-to-severe Graves orbitopathy is intravenous glucocorticoids. However, recent advances in understanding the pathogenesis of Graves orbitopathy have allowed the development of new target-based therapies by blocking pro-inflammatory cytokine receptors, lymphocytic infiltration or the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R), with several clinical trials providing promising results. This article reviews the new discoveries in the pathogenesis of Graves hyperthyroidism and Graves orbitopathy that offer several important tools in disease management.

Statins and thyroid eye disease (TED): a systematic review

PURPOSE

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is the foremost extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves' disease (GD). Currently, available treatments do not entirely prevent the long-term consequences of TED and have distinct disadvantages. Therefore, this systematic review explored available evidence regarding the efficacy of statins in preventing and treating TED.

METHODS

Relevant studies investigating statin usage in patients with GD or TED were identified by searching Medline (Pubmed and Ovid), Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, and Cochrane Library databases (from the database inception to September 2023). The review was done according to the PRISMA statement. Web searching was done independently by two investigators. Two researchers independently extracted the data, and any disagreement was adjudicated by consensus. Based on the study design, the studies' quality appraisal was done using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) and Version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool (RoB2).

RESULTS

The literature search identified 145 publications, of which four met the inclusion criteria (Three retrospective cohort studies and one randomized clinical trial) and were reviewed in full text. The two retrospective cohort studies demonstrated the beneficial effects of statins on TED in newly diagnosed GD Stein et al. showed that statins, regardless of the type, prevent or delay TED (HR: 0.74 (0.65-0.84)), especially in men or treatment duration of more than one year. Nilsson et al. fascinatingly revealed that at least 60 days of statin usage in the preceding year could decrease the risk of TED development by around 40%. One RCT showed a higher treatment response for active moderate-to-severe TED in patients with hypercholesterolemia who took atorvastatin 20 mg in addition to ivGC for 24 weeks without any increase in serious side effects. The retrospective study revealed that the need for reconstructive surgery was reduced in patients with severe TED who received statin therapy.

CONCLUSION

Statin therapy could be a potential adjunctive modality for preventing and treating TED.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022315522.

An Appraisal of the Preventive Effect of Statins on the Development of Graves' Ophthalmopathy: A Hospital-Based Cohort Study

INTRODUCTION

Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder observed in a substantial proportion of patients with Graves' disease (GD), with debilitating symptoms of disfiguring, periorbital pain, dry eyes, diplopia, and even visual disturbances. Previous studies involving Western populations have noted discrepancies in risk factors for GO. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the risk factors for GO development and the protective effect of statins in newly diagnosed patients with GD in Taiwan.

METHODS

This retrospective case-control study was based on a tertiary center cohort involving patients with GD diagnosed between 2010 and 2019 at the National Taiwan University Hospital (n = 11,035). Patients who were diagnosed or treated elsewhere, had been followed up for less than 6 months or were with a diagnosis of orbital tumor were excluded. Overall, 3578 patients with GD met the inclusion criteria. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to ascertain the odds ratio (OR) of developing GO, with adjustment for sociodemographic factors, interventions for managing GD and thyroid hormone levels, to determine protective and risk factors for GO.

RESULTS

In our multivariate model, the use of statins reduced the risk of GO development (OR 0.2; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.08-0.50; p < 0.001). Thyroid dysfunction including hyperthyroidism (OR 4.2; 95% CI 2.97-5.88; p < 0.001) and hypothyroidism (OR 4.7; 95% CI 3.02-7.19; p < 0.001) was associated with an increased risk of developing GO. Smoking status and lipid profile were not risk factors in our cohort.

CONCLUSION

In newly diagnosed patients with GD, the use of statins decreased the risk of developing GO by 80%, whereas serum lipid levels were not considered risk factors. Further nationwide population-based studies may help clarify the differences in risk factors between various ethnic groups.

TRAIL REGISTRATION

This trial was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of National Taiwan University Hospital (202202066RINC), retrospectively registered from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2019.

Triglyceride Glucose Index: A Potential Indicator in the Evaluation of Graves Ophthalmopathy

PURPOSE

To determine the relationship between Graves ophthalmopathy (GO) and triglyceride glucose index (TGI) and to evaluate the predictive importance of this index in terms of GO activity.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 20 inactive GO patients, 20 active GO patients, and 20 healthy controls. TGI was calculated using fasting plasma triglyceride and fasting plasma glucose levels and values were compared between the groups. The receiver operating characteristics curve was used to calculate the optimal TGI cutoff value and the sensitivity and specificity of this value between active and inactive GO groups.

RESULTS

No significant difference was detected between the groups in terms of age and gender (p = 0.561 and p = 0.762, respectively). TGI value was 8.49 (8.41, 8.67) in the control group, 8.76 (8.74, 8.87) in the inactive GO group, and 9.06 (8.87, 9.08) in the active GO group (p < 0.001 for control group vs. inactive GO group; p < 0.001 for control group vs. active GO group; p = 0.001 for inactive GO group vs. active GO group). The optimal receiver operating characteristics cutoff value of TGI between active and inactive GO groups was 8.86 with 85% sensitivity and 75% specificity (area under curve: 0.837, p < 0.001, 95% confidence interval: 0.711-0.964).

CONCLUSION

TGI was higher in both inactive and active GO patients compared with controls. It also appears that TGI may be used as a predictive marker indicating GO activity. This cheap and easily accessible parameter may be beneficial in detecting the disease and monitoring its activity in clinical practice.

[Interdisciplinary Management of Orbital Diseases]

Diagnosis and therapy of orbital diseases is an interdisciplinary challenge, in which i.e. otorhinolaryngologists, ophthalmologists, radiologists, radiation therapists, maxillo-facial surgeons, endocrinologists, and pediatricians are involved. This review article describes frequent diseases which both, otolaryngologists and ophthalmologists are concerned with in interdisciplinary settings. In particular the inflammatory diseases of the orbit including orbital complications, autoimmunological diseases of the orbit including Grave´s orbitopathy, and primary and secondary tumors of the orbit are discussed. Beside describing the clinical characteristics and diagnostic steps the article focusses on the interdisciplinary therapy. The review is completed by the presentation of most important surgical approaches to the orbit, their indications and possible complications. The authors tried to highlight the relevant facts despite the shortness of the text.

Predictive factors of development of dysthyroid optic neuropathy among individuals with thyroid-eye disease

PURPOSE

Dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON) is a severe visual loss condition in thyroid eye disease (TED). This study aimed to identify factors affecting moderate-to-severe TED or DON in Thai populations.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 230 TED patients at Rajavithi Hospital between January 1, 2017, and October 31, 2022.

RESULTS

Mild, moderate-to-severe TED, and DON were found in 60.43%, 22.61%, and 16.96% of participants, respectively. Female predominance was noted in all groups. The proportion of older age, hyperthyroidism, current smokers, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) participants were significantly higher in the DON group. Multivariable logistic-regression analysis revealed that hyperthyroidism and current smoking significantly increased the risk of developing moderate-to-severe TED (OR = 3.001, p = 0.010, and OR = 4.153, p = 0.015, respectively). Exophthalmos was the strongest predictor (OR = 6.834, p < 0.001). Regarding DON risk factors, older age (≥55 years) had OR = 3.206 (p = 0.003), hyperthyroidism had OR = 3.228 (p = 0.005), and being a current smoker had OR = 3.781 (p = 0.011). T2DM posed the greatest risk of DON development (OR = 4.111, p = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperthyroidism and current smoking are significant risk factors for moderate-to-severe TED and DON. TED patients with diabetes mellitus or older age should be closely monitored and informed about their risk of developing DON.

Serum Lipoprotein(a) Is Not Associated with Graves' Ophthalmopathy

Aim: To investigate the relationship of serum lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] and other serum lipids with presence of Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO). Methods: A total of 99 consecutive patients diagnosed with Graves' disease (GD), aged 18-65 years, who had not received prior treatment for GO, thyroid surgery, or radioactive iodine therapy, were recruited between June 2020 and July 2022. In addition, 56 healthy controls (HCs) were included as the control group. All patients underwent an ophthalmological examination, and were classified based on the presence of GO into the GO group (n = 45) and no GO group (n = 54). Fasting blood samples were collected from all participants to analyze serum lipid parameters, including Lp(a), total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides. Results: The median serum levels of Lp(a) were 5.7 [4.3-9.2] in the GO group, 6.7 [3.7-9.9] in the no GO group, and 4.7 [3-7.6] in the HC group. The intergroup comparisons of serum Lp(a) levels showed no significant result. The serum levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides were also similar between the groups (P > 0.05 for all). However, when analyzing only euthyroid GD patients and the control group, the serum LDL cholesterol levels were found to be significantly higher in the euthyroid GO group [median: 132 interquartile range (IQR) (110-148) mg/dL] than in the HCs [median: 96 IQR (94-118) mg/dL] (P = 0.002). Conclusion: The findings of our study did not support the association between serum Lp(a) levels and GO.

Current Therapeutic Approaches for Graves' Orbitopathy - are Targeted Therapies the Future?

Graves' orbitopathy is an autoimmune disease of the orbit that most frequently occurs with Graves' hyperthyroidism. The occurrence of autoantibodies directed against the TSH receptor (TRAb) is of central importance for the diagnosis and pathogenesis. These autoantibodies are mostly stimulating, and induce uncontrolled hyperthyroidism and tissue remodelling in the orbit and more or less pronounced inflammation. Consequently, patients suffer to a variable extent from periocular swelling, exophthalmos, and fibrosis of the eye muscles and thus restrictive motility impairment with double vision. In recent decades, therapeutic approaches have mainly comprised immunosuppressive treatments and antithyroid drug therapy for hyperthyroidism to inhibit thyroid hormone production. With the recognition that TRAb also activates an important growth factor receptor, IGF1R (insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor), biological agents have been developed. Teprotumumab (an inhibitory IGF1R antibody) has already been approved in the USA and the therapeutic effects are enormous, especially with regard to the reduction of exophthalmos. Side effects are to be considered, especially hyperglycaemia and hearing loss. It is not yet clear whether the autoimmune reaction (development of the TRAb/attraction of immunocompetent cells) is also influenced by anti-IGF1R inhibiting agents. Recurrences after therapy show that the inhibition of antibody development must be included in the therapeutic concept, especially in severe cases.

Statins in Graves Orbitopathy: A New Therapeutic Tool

PURPOSE

Graves orbitopathy (GO) is the most common extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves disease. Although its pathogenesis is not fully elucidated, GO is commonly considered an autoimmune disease due to loss of self-tolerance against autoantigens shared by thyroid epithelial cells and orbital fibroblasts. High-dose intravenous glucocorticoids (ivGCs) are the most used treatment for moderate-to-severe, active GO, but the addition of other immunomodulating treatments can improve the efficacy of ivGCs. Among the various risk factors that can affect the occurrence of GO, cholesterol may be worthy of interest. Since 2015 the role of cholesterol and cholesterol-lowering medications has been investigated. The purpose of this review is to discuss this topic, thereby offering new therapeutic opportunities for patients with GO.

METHODS

We searched PubMed for studies published between January 1, 1980 and June 1, 2023, using the search terms "Graves orbitopathy," "thyroid eye disease," "Graves ophthalmopathy," "thyroid ophthalmopathy," "thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy," "endocrine ophthalmopathy," "cholesterol," "lipids," "statins," "low-density lipoprotein," "atorvastatin," and "cholesterol-lowering drugs." Only English-language articles were included.

RESULTS

A correlation between low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and the risk of GO development has been reported. Furthermore, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol has been proposed as a risk factor that can affect the course of GO and the response to ivGCs. The protective role of cholesterol-lowering medications in preventing GO has been also investigated. Statin treatment was found to have potential benefits in reducing the risk of GO in patients with Graves disease. Given these findings, measurement of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and treatment of hypercholesterolemia in patients with moderate-to-severe, active GO may be considered before starting ivGCs administration. Recently, a randomized clinical trial aimed at investigating the effects of statins in GO suggested that the addition of oral atorvastatin to ivGCs improves the overall outcome of moderate-to-severe, active GO in hypercholesterolemic patients given ivGCs.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, statins seem to have a preventive and therapeutic role in moderate-to-severe active GO. Their efficacy can be related to cholesterol-lowering activity, pleiotropic actions, and interaction with methylprednisolone.

Thyroid Eye Disease: Epidemiology, Natural History, and Risk Factors

BACKGROUND

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is an autoimmune disorder of the orbit and the most frequent extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves' disease but it may rarely occur in euthyroid/hypothyroid patients with chronic autoimmune thyroiditis.

EPIDEMIOLOGY

TED is a relatively infrequent disorder, particularly in its severe forms. Men tend to have more severe TED at an older age. The prevalence of TED is lower than in the past among patients with recent onset Graves' hyperthyroidism, and moderate-to-severe forms requiring aggressive treatments are no more than 5% to 6% of all cases.

NATURAL HISTORY

After an initial inflammatory (active) phase and a plateau phase, TED stabilizes and eventually inactivates (inactive or burnt-out phase) after an estimated period of 18-24 months. Minimal-to-mild TED often remits spontaneously, but complete restitutio ad integrum almost never occurs when TED is more than mild.

RISK FACTORS

Several risk factors contribute to its development on a yet undefined genetic background. Cigarette smoking is the most important of them, but thyroid dysfunction (both hyper- and hypothyroidism), radioactive iodine therapy (if not accompanied by low-dose steroid prophylaxis), elevated thyrotropin receptor antibodies, and, probably, hypercholesterolemia represent relevant modifiable risk factors. Early diagnosis, control and removal of modifiable risk factors, and early treatment of mild forms of GO (local treatment and selenium) may effectively limit the risk of progression to more severe forms.

Molecular Biomarkers in Thyroid Eye Disease: A Literature Review

PURPOSE

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is the most common extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves disease. Patients may be severely affected with eyelid retraction, exophthalmos, diplopia, pain, and threatened vision. Autoantibodies against thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor have shown associations with pathophysiological and clinical traits. Autoantibodies against thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor is in current clinical use as biomarker, but not with unambiguous diagnostic performance. A biomarker with high diagnostic accuracy and/or prognostic capability would be of immense value in diagnosing TED, especially in subclinical cases or when TED precedes the thyroid dysfunction. This article is a literature review on molecular biomarkers of TED.

METHODS

A literature search was performed using PubMed and Embase. Studies on molecular biomarkers in blood, tear fluid, and urine were included in the review.

RESULTS

Forty-six papers were included, of which 30, 14, and 2 studies on biomarkers in blood, tears, and urine, respectively. Fourteen of the papers evaluated the diagnostic performance of various biomarkers, 12 in blood and 2 in tears. Most studies evaluated single biomarkers, but 3 tested a panel of several markers. Except for autoantibodies against thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor, the reported diagnostic performances for the biomarkers were not confirmed in independent cohorts. In 32 studies, no or insufficient performance data were given, but the findings indicated involvement of various biologic mechanisms in TED including inflammation, oxidative stress, fibrosis, lipid metabolism, and ocular surface microflora.

CONCLUSIONS

Currently, serum autoantibodies against thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor is the only molecular biomarker with clinical utility in patients with TED. Several potential biomarkers have been investigated, and particularly panels of multiple biomarkers in tears are promising. To improve patient care, biomarkers in TED should be studied further.

Dysthyroid Optic Neuropathy

PURPOSE

Dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON) is a sight-threatening complication of thyroid eye disease (TED). This review provides an overview of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and current therapeutic options for DON.

METHODS

A literature review.

RESULTS

DON occurs in about 5% to 8% of TED patients. Compression of the optic nerve at the apex is the most widely accepted pathogenic mechanism. Excessive stretching of the nerve might play a role in a minority of cases. Increasing age, male gender, smoking, and diabetes mellitus have been identified as risk factors. Diagnosis of DON is based on a combination of ≥2 clinical findings, including decreased visual acuity, decreased color vision, relative afferent pupillary defect, visual field defects, or optic disc edema. Orbital imaging supports the diagnosis by confirming apical crowding or optic nerve stretching. DON should be promptly treated with high-dose intravenous glucocorticoids. Decompression surgery should be performed, but the response is incomplete. Radiotherapy might play a role in the prevention of DON development and may delay or avoid the need for surgery. The advent of new biologic-targeted agents provides an exciting new array of therapeutic options, though more research is needed to clarify the role of these medications in the management of DON.

CONCLUSIONS

Even with appropriate management, DON can result in irreversible loss of visual function. Prompt diagnosis and management are pivotal and require a multidisciplinary approach. Methylprednisolone infusions still represent first-line therapy, and surgical decompression is performed in cases of treatment failure. Biologics may play a role in the future.

Thyroid Eye Disease and Its Association With Diabetes Mellitus: A Major Review

PURPOSE

Thyroid eye disease (TED) associated with diabetes mellitus (DM) presents unique challenges. DM is a risk factor for TED. Standard management of TED with glucocorticoids (GC), orbital radiation, or teprotumumab can cause adverse events in poor glycemic control. The authors reviewed the literature on the relationship between TED and DM and the management of co-existing diseases.

METHODS

The authors searched PubMed with keywords "thyroid eye disease," "diabetes mellitus," and similar terms from 2013 to 2022. The authors included relevant studies after screening the abstracts. Additional references to the selected studies were included where applicable. Data were extracted from the final articles according to the preplanned outline of the review.

RESULTS

The initial search yielded 279 abstracts. The final review included 93 articles. TED and DM interact at multiple levels-genetic, immunologic, cellular, nutritional, and metabolic. Both DM and thyroid dysfunction exacerbate the morbidity caused by the other. Metabolic factors also affect the inflammatory pathway for TED. Patients with DM develop TED with greater frequency and severity, necessitating interventions for vision salvage. Agents (GC, teprotumumab, or radiation) used for TED are often unsuitable for treatment with DM, especially if there is poor glycemic control or diabetic retinopathy. There were no studies on using steroid-sparing agents in TED with DM.

CONCLUSION

TED and DM co-exist because of multiple intersections in the pathophysiology. Challenges in the treatment include increased TED severity and risk of hyperglycemia and retinopathy. Multidisciplinary teams best undertake treatment of TED with DM.

Sex-specific risk factors associated with graves' orbitopathy in Korean patients with newly diagnosed graves' disease

OBJECTIVE

To assess sex-specific risk factors for Graves' orbitopathy (GO) in newly diagnosed Graves' disease (GD) patients.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the National Health Insurance Service's sample database, which consisted of 1,137,861 subjects from 2002 to 2019. The international classification of disease-10 codes was used to identify those who developed GD (E05) and GO (H062). A multivariable Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate the effect of risk factors on GO development.

RESULTS

Among 2145 male and 5047 female GD patients, GO occurred in 134 men (6.2%) and 293 women (5.8%). A multivariable Cox regression model revealed that GO development was significantly associated with younger age (HR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.73-0.98), low income (HR = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.35-0.86), and heavy drinking (HR = 1.79, 95% CI = 1.10-2.90) in men, and with younger age (HR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.81-0.98), lower body mass index (HR = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.33-0.90), high total cholesterol (HR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.01-1.06), hyperlipidaemia (HR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.02-1.85), and lower statin dose (HR = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.22-0.62) in women. There was no association between smoking and GO development in both men and women.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk factors for GO development were sex-dependent. These results show the need for more sophisticated attention and support considering sex characteristics in GO surveillance.

Associations between Lipid Profiles and Graves' Orbitopathy can Be HLA-Dependent

The risk of Graves' orbitopathy (GO) is related to the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) profile and was demonstrated to be increased in patients with elevated total cholesterol (TC) and/or low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. We hypothesized that there were some HLA alleles that were related to both GO and TC and/or LDL levels. Therefore, the aim of the study was to compare the TC/LDL results in patients in whom GO-related HLA alleles were present to those in whom they did not occur. HLA classes were genotyped using a next-generation sequencing method in 118 patients with Graves' disease (GD), including 63 and 55 patients with and without GO, respectively. Lipid profiles were assessed at the time of the GD diagnosis. A significant correlation between the presence of GO high-risk alleles (HLA-B*37:01 and C*03:02) and higher TC/LDL levels was found. Additionally, the presence of alleles associated with non-GO GD (HLA-C*17:01 and B*08:01), as well as alleles in linkage disequilibrium with B*08:01 (i.e., HLA-DRB1*03:01 and DQB1*02:01), was correlated with lower TC levels. These results further confirm the significance of TC/LDL in the risk of GO development and provide evidence that associations between TC/LDL and GO can be HLA-dependent.

Prognostic significance of thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor antibodies in moderate-to-severe graves' orbitopathy

Design

Retrospective study.

Purpose

The purpose of this retrospective study was to assess the changes in thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSH-R) antibody levels following treatment in patients with moderate-to-severe and active Graves' orbitopathy (GO) and to investigate the correlation between these antibodies and treatment response.

Methods

The subjects of this study comprised of patients newly diagnosed with moderate-to-severe and active GO within the age range of 19 to 79 years. All participants underwent intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) therapy for a duration of 12 weeks. Patients with a clinical activity score (CAS) decrease to or less than 3 and no symptom recurrence for at least 3months after the last dose of IVMP were classified as "Group 1". Those with a CAS equal to or greater than 4 were classified as "Group 2". TSH-R antibody levels were measured prior to and following IVMP treatment and treatment response was evaluated after the completion of IVMP therapy. All patients were monitored for a minimum of 6 months post-treatment, with ocular examinations and laboratory tests at the initial visit being included in the analysis.

Results

The medical records of the 96 patients with GO were retrospectively reviewed. Seventy-five patients (78.1%) were response and 21 (21.9%) were non-responsive to IVMP treatment. A higher TSH-R antibody (TRAb) and thyroid-stimulating antibody (TSAb) following treatment were associated with a high risk of no treatment response (P = 0.017; P = 0.047, respectively). TRAb and TSAb levels before treatment were significantly related to TRAb and TSAb levels after treatment (P < 0.001, respectively). The cut-off values for the prediction of poor treatment response of the TRAb and TSAb before and after treatment were 8.305 IU/L, 5.035 IU/L and 449.5%, 361%, respectively (P = 0.027, P =0.001 and P = 0.136, P = 0.004, respectively).

Conclusion

It was observed that elevated levels of TRAb and TSAb prior to IVMP treatment were positively correlated with post-treatment levels of these antibodies. Furthermore, in cases of non-response to IVMP therapy, a diminished decline in both antibodies was observed, and elevated levels of TRAb and TSAb post-treatment were found to be a significant predictor of poor treatment outcome. Measurement of TRAb and TSAb throughout the course of treatment in moderate-to-severe and active cases of GO may offer valuable insights into treatment prognosis and aid in the decision-making process regarding the potential need for increased IVMP dosage or alternative therapeutic strategies.

Influence of biological sex, age and smoking on Graves’ orbitopathy – a ten-year tertiary referral center analysis

Purpose

Severity of Graves’ orbitopathy (GO) shows wide individual differences. For optimal treatment, it is important to be able to predict the natural course of the disease as accurate as possible to counteract with anti-inflammatory and surgical treatment. Therefore, we aimed to further elucidate the impact of sex, age and smoking on GO.

Methods

We collected the clinical and demographic data of all patients of our tertiary referral center from January 2008 till December 2018 and analyzed it with descriptive statistics. Only patients with a complete data set were included in the further analysis. Odds ratio’s for moderate-to-severe and sight-threatening GO in relation to age, sex and smoking were calculated by means of multivariate logistic regression models.

Results

We evaluated the data of 4260 patient with GO and complete data sets. Most of these were women (83%). There were no significant differences between male and female patients regarding smoking habits and thyroid treatment. Men were significantly older at initial manifestation of TED (51.8 vs. 49.9y, p&lt;0.01) and showed significant more often severe stages (61% vs. 53%, p&lt;0.0001). Therefore, they needed significantly more intense treatment with steroids, irradiation, orbital decompression and muscle surgery. In multivariate logistic regression analyses age (OR 0.97, 95% CI:0.97-0.98, p&lt;0.0001), male sex (OR 1.64, 95% CI:1.38-1.9, p&lt;0.0001), smoking (OR 1.19, 95% CI:1.04-1.36, p=0.01), Grave’s disease (OR 1.55, 95% CI:1.26-1.90, p&lt;0.0001) and history of radioiodine treatment (RAI) (OR 2.44, 95% CI:2.10-2.86, p&lt;0.0001) showed an significant association with severe stages of GO.

Discussion

Our retrospective analysis showed once more that women are more often afflicted by GO. In contrast, men seem to be more severely afflicted and in need of anti-inflammatory and surgical treatments. This might be due to a different approach to the health system and resilience to GO specific symptoms, as well as previously described worse thyroid control. Estrogen mediated effects might also play a role as in other autoimmune diseases and should be subject of further trials. Besides the biological sex, smoking could again be confirmed as serious risk factor for severe GO. Of note, RAI was associated with more severe stages of GO, which should be subject to further investigation.

Traditional Chinese medicine in thyroid-associated orbitopathy

PURPOSE

Orbital fibroblasts (OF) are considered the central target cells in the pathogenesis of thyroid-associated orbitopathy (TAO), which comprises orbital inflammation, orbital tissue edema, adipogenesis, fibrosis, oxidative stress and autophagy. Certain active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) demonstrated inhibition of TAO-OF in pre-clinical studies and they could be translated into novel therapeutic strategies.

METHODS

The pertinent and current literature of pre-clinical studies on TAO investigating the effects of active ingredients of TCM was reviewed using the NCBI PubMed database.

RESULTS

Eleven TCM compounds demonstrated inhibition of TAO-OF in-vitro and three of them (polydatin, curcumin, and gypenosides) resulted in improvement in TAO mouse models. Tanshinone IIA reduced inflammation, oxidative stress and adipogenesis. Both resveratrol and its precursor polydatin displayed anti-oxidative and anti-adipogenic properties. Celastrol inhibited inflammation and triptolide prevented TAO-OF activation, while icariin inhibited autophagy and adipogenesis. Astragaloside IV reduced inflammation via suppressing autophagy and inhibited fat accumulation as well as collagen deposition. Curcumin displayed multiple actions, including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-adipogenic, anti-fibrotic and anti-angiogenic effects via multiple signaling pathways. Gypenosides reduced inflammation, oxidative stress, tissue fibrosis, as well as oxidative stress mediated autophagy and apoptosis. Dihydroartemisinin inhibited OF proliferation, inflammation, hyaluronan (HA) production, and fibrosis. Berberine attenuated inflammation, HA production, adipogenesis, and fibrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical trials of different phases with adequate power and sound methodology will be warranted to evaluate the appropriate dosage, safety and efficacy of these compounds in the management of TAO.

Novel Insight into Non-Genetic Risk Factors of Graves' Orbitopathy

An assessment of the risk of Graves' orbitopathy (GO) is an important challenge in Graves' disease (GD) management. The purpose of this study was to compare non-genetic parameters in GD patients with and without GO in order to find novel risk factors and to verify the factors already reported. A total number of 161 people, 70 with GO and 91 non-GO patients were included in this study. GO was confirmed to be associated with smoking, older age, higher TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb) and lower thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb) levels and hypercholesterolemia. We demonstrated the latter correlation even for only a mild increase in LDL cholesterol. Importantly, our study provides novel potential GO risk factors, including higher serum creatinine levels, higher MCV and lower PLT. If further confirmed, these new, simple and easily accessible potential GO markers may constitute valuable auxiliary markers in GO risk assessments. We additionally proved that in moderate to severe GO, gender-related differences attenuate. No impact of vitamin D deficiency in GO development in patients with 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] > 20 ng/mL was found. The present report provides a set of GO risk factors, which can be used as a precise tool for an individual GO risk assessment.

Predictive Model for Graves' Ophthalmopathy in Patients with New-Onset Graves' Disease

Background: The most prevalent extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves' disease (GD) is Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO). However, only few methods allow for predictions of GO occurrence or progression in patients with GD. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 1,074 patients with new-onset GD, and divided them into a derivation and a validation cohort based on the date of their GD diagnosis. We then separately analyzed clinical risk factors affecting the occurrence and progression of GO using multivariable regression analysis and created a predictive model based on the factors we identified as significant. Results: Of the 853 GD patients included in the derivation cohort, 101 (11.8%) developed GO. Those who developed GO were more likely to be smokers (25.7% vs. 8.5%, p < 0.001), were younger at the time of their GD diagnosis (35.0 years vs. 42.0 years, p < 0.001), more commonly had a family history of GD (27.7% vs. 17.2%, p = 0.015), and had higher thyrotropin-binding inhibitor immunoglobulin (TBII) levels at the time of their diagnosis (13.5 IU/L vs. 10.0 IU/L, p = 0.020) than those who did not develop GO. Of the 101 GO patients in the derivation cohort, after excluding 8 who initially had active and moderate-to-severe GO, 11 of the remaining 93 had progressed to more active or severe GO. GO patients with confirmed progression had a higher proportion of those older than 45 years (54.5% vs. 19.8%, p = 0.031), and they had a different initial clinical activity score distribution. The multivariable regression analysis identified age at GD diagnosis, sex, smoking history, family history of GD, total cholesterol level, and TBII level at the time of the diagnosis as significant risk factors of GO occurrence, and a predictive model including these risk factors was built to create a nomogram. Conclusions: The predictors of GO occurrence in patients with new-onset GD were female sex, positive smoking history, young age, family history of GD, high cholesterol level, and high TBII level. The predictive nomogram developed in this study may be useful in patient counseling and facilitating informed treatment decision-making.

The Relationship between Obesity-Related Factors and Graves' Orbitopathy: A Pilot Study

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between obesity-related factors including body mass index (BMI), diabetes or prediabetes, hyperlipidemia, fasting plasma glucose, fasting plasma insulin, homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and Graves' orbitopathy (GO). Materials and Methods: Eighty-four patients with Graves' disease (GD) (42 without GO and 42 with GO) were enrolled in this cross-sectional cohort study. Gender, age, GD treatment history, height, body weight, waist circumference, smoking status, co-morbidities, levels of free thyroxin, thyroid-stimulating hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR) antibodies, fasting plasma glucose and insulin, and hs-CRP were recorded. The eye condition was evaluated using the consensus statement of the European Group of Graves' Orbitopathy (EUGOGO) and the NOSPECS classification. Results: In this study, multivariate regression analysis showed that BMI, fasting plasma insulin, and HOMA-IR were associated with the presence of GO after adjusting the age, gender, smoking, TSHR antibodies, and steroid usage (adjusted odd's ratio (aOR) 1.182, 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.003-1.393, p = 0.046; aOR 1.165, 95% CI, 1.001-1.355, p = 0.048; and aOR 1.985, 95% CI, 1.046-3.764, p = 0.036, respectively). In addition, BMI, fasting plasma glucose, fasting plasma insulin, HOMA-IR, and hs-CRP levels were positively correlated with the severity of GO. Conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that obesity-related factors, especially fasting plasma insulin and HOMA-IR, are related to GO. Our study highlighted the importance of obesity-related factors in GO. Obesity-related factors may cause the development of GO or occur simultaneously with GO.

Current concepts regarding Graves' orbitopathy

Graves' orbitopathy (GO) is an orbital autoimmune disorder and the main extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves' disease, the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. GO affects about 30% of Graves' patients, although fewer than 10% have severe forms requiring immunosuppressive treatments. Management of GO requires a multidisciplinary approach. Medical therapies for active moderate-to-severe forms of GO (traditionally, high-dose glucocorticoids) often provide unsatisfactory results, and subsequently surgeries are often needed to cure residual manifestations. The aim of this review is to provide an updated overview of current concepts regarding the epidemiology, pathogenesis, assessment, and treatment of GO, and to present emerging targeted therapies and therapeutic perspectives. Original articles, clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses from 1980 to 2021 were searched using the following terms: Graves' disease, Graves' orbitopathy, thyroid eye disease, glucocorticoids, orbital radiotherapy, rituximab, cyclosporine, azathioprine, teprotumumab, TSH-receptor antibody, smoking, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, thyroidectomy, radioactive iodine, and antithyroid drugs. Recent studies suggest a secular trend toward a milder phenotype of GO. Standardized assessment at a thyroid eye clinic allows for a better general management plan. Treatment of active moderate-to-severe forms of GO still relies in most cases on high-dose systemic-mainly intravenous-glucocorticoids as monotherapy or in combination with other therapies-such as mycophenolate, cyclosporine, azathioprine, or orbital radiotherapy-but novel biological agents-including teprotumumab, rituximab, and tocilizumab-have achieved encouraging results.

Recent advances in graves ophthalmopathy medical therapy: a comprehensive literature review

Graves ophthalmopathy (GO), which occurs in autoimmune thyroid disease, can reduce patients' quality of life due to its impact on visual function, physical appearance, and emotional health. Corticosteroids have been the first-line treatment for GO. More recently, the pathogenesis of GO has made significant progress. Various targeting biological agents and immunosuppressive agents make GO management more promising. Fully understanding GO pathogenesis and precise clinical management are beneficial for the prognosis of patients. Therefore, we conducted a comprehensive review of the medical management of GO and summarized research developments to highlight future research issues.

Methotrexate plus reduced or full-dose glucocorticoids for the treatment of active, moderate-to-severe Graves' orbitopathy

Objective

A combination of glucocorticoids with mycophenolate is recommended by current guidelines to boost response to Graves' orbitopathy (GO) therapy. This study was designed to evaluate the therapeutic effects and safety of methotrexate (MTX) plus reduced (3.0 g) or full-dose (4.5 g) i.v. methylprednisolone (MP) vs full-dose i.v. MP alone.

Design and methods

This was a prospective, randomized, observer-masked, single-center clinical trial conducted in a tertiary clinical center. Ninety-seven patients with active moderate-to-severe GO were screened and 90 patients underwent randomization between April 2018 and Oct 2019. All patients completed 12 weeks of treatment and received clinical assessment. The patients received either MP 4.5 g only, MP 4.5 g plus oral MTX, or MP 3.0 g plus oral MTX. The primary outcome was the CAS response at week 12. Secondary outcomes were adverse events and other individual ophthalmic parameters.

Results

At week 12, 53.3% of MP, 76.7% of reduced MP plus MTX, and 76.7% of MP plus MTX achieved a CAS response, although the difference was not significant (P = 0.1). The overall response rates of the MP group, the reduced MP plus MTX group, and the MP plus MTX group were 43.3%, 53.3%, and 60%, respectively (P = 0.5). Subgroup analysis found that smoking status interacted with marginal significance with treatment effect (P = 0.048). Importantly, adverse event incidence was significantly lower in the reduced MP + MTX group (P = 0.017).

Conclusions

Our study shows that reduced MP plus MTX therapy is effective and safer in treating active and moderate-to-severe GO patients than 4.5 g MP monotherapy.

2021 update on thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy

PURPOSE

Our understanding of thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO, A.K.A Graves' orbitopathy, thyroid eye disease) has advanced substantially, since one of us (TJS) wrote the 2010 update on TAO, appearing in this journal.

METHODS

PubMed was searched for relevant articles.

RESULTS

Recent insights have resulted from important studies conducted by many different laboratory groups around the World. A clearer understanding of autoimmune diseases in general and TAO specifically emerged from the use of improved research methodologies. Several key concepts have matured over the past decade. Among them, those arising from the refinement of mouse models of TAO, early stage investigation into restoring immune tolerance in Graves' disease, and a hard-won acknowledgement that the insulin-like growth factor-I receptor (IGF-IR) might play a critical role in the development of TAO, stand out as important. The therapeutic inhibition of IGF-IR has blossomed into an effective and safe medical treatment. Teprotumumab, a β-arrestin biased agonist monoclonal antibody inhibitor of IGF-IR has been studied in two multicenter, double-masked, placebo-controlled clinical trials demonstrated both effectiveness and a promising safety profile in moderate-to-severe, active TAO. Those studies led to the approval by the US FDA of teprotumumab, currently marketed as Tepezza for TAO. We have also learned far more about the putative role that CD34+ fibrocytes and their derivatives, CD34+ orbital fibroblasts, play in TAO.

CONCLUSION

The past decade has been filled with substantial scientific advances that should provide the necessary springboard for continually accelerating discovery over the next 10 years and beyond.

The risk factors for Graves' ophthalmopathy

PURPOSE

This review aimed to provide an overview of current research into the risk factors for Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO).

METHODS

To find information about the risk factors for GO, the research database PubMed was searched and relevant articles were obtained to extract information about risk factors.

RESULTS

Smoking has been widely accepted as an important risk factor and cigarette smoking cessation has been shown to improve the outcome and decrease the onset of GO. Radioactive iodine on the thyroid may induce hyperthyroidism and increase the occurrence of GO. Selenium deficiency is a risk factor for GO and the supplementation of selenium has been an adjuvant therapy. Decreasing stressful life events (SLE) may help improve GO. Imbalance in intestinal flora is essential to GO, with Yersinia enterocolitica and Escherichia coli both increased in the digestive tract of the individual with GO. In addition, controlling serum cholesterol may help improve GO since adipogenesis is an important pathological change in its pathogenesis. Considering the correlation between Graves' disease and GO, maintaining normal thyroid function hormone level is the first-line therapeutic strategy to prevent progression of GO. An increase in antibodies such as TSHR and IGF-1R is the main predictor of GO. Besides, gender and gene polymorphism are also risk factors towards GO.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk factors for GO arise from five sources: physical and chemical environment, social-psychological environment, biological environment, the human organism, and genetic codes. Risk factors within these categories may interact with each other and their mechanisms in promoting the development of GO are complex. Research into risk factors for GO may promote emerging fields related to GO such as control of autoantibodies and intestinal microbiota.

Statins for Graves' orbitopathy (STAGO): a phase 2, open-label, adaptive, single centre, randomised clinical trial

BACKGROUND

A protective action of statins on development of Graves' orbitopathy suggests that statins might be used for treatment of the disease. We aimed to assess the efficacy of the addition of a statin, atorvastatin, to intravenous glucocorticoids (ivGCs) on Graves' orbitopathy outcomes in patients with hypercholesterolaemia.

METHODS

We did a randomised, open-label, phase 2, adaptive, clinical trial at a single, tertiary, referral hospital in Pisa, Italy. Patients with moderate-to-severe, active Graves' orbitopathy, with a low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration between 2·97 and 4·88 mmol/L were eligible for inclusion. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) in 11 blocks of eight, using a computer-based system, to the ST group or the NST group. The ST group received ivGCs (methylprednisolone 500 mg once a week for 6 weeks followed by 250 mg once a week for an additional six weeks) for 12 weeks and oral atorvastatin (20 mg once a day) for 24 weeks. The NST group only received the ivGC regimen. Patients were unmasked to group allocation; however, the ophthalmological investigator was masked to randomisation. The primary endpoint was the Graves' orbitopathy outcome (composite evaluation of exophthalmos, clinical activity score, eyelid aperture, and diplopia) at 24 weeks in the modified intention-to-treat (ITT) population (patients who attended the week 12 visit). Patients were considered responders when at least two of the following criteria were fulfilled in the most affected eye, without worsening in any of the same measures in both eyes: (1) reduction in exophthalmos of 2 mm or more, with no increase by 2 mm or more in the other eye; (2) reduction of clinical activity score by two or more points; (3) reduction in eyelid aperture by 2 mm or more, with no increase by 2 mm or more in the other eye; and (4) disappearance or improvement (change from constant to inconstant, intermittent, or absent, or from inconstant to intermittent or absent) of diplopia, and (5) improvement in visual acuity by 0·2 decimals or more. The trial is registered with EUDRACT, 2018-001317-33, and ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03110848.

FINDINGS

Between June 1, 2020, and Nov 30, 2020, 119 patients were screened for inclusion, of whom 88 (74%) patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to one of the two treatment groups (44 [50%] to the ST group and 44 [50%] to the NST group). Eight (9%) patients did not attend the 12 week visit; 80 (91%) patients (18 [23%] men and 62 [78%] women) were included in the modified ITT population (41 [51%] in the ST group and 39 [49%] in the NST group]. The proportion of Graves' orbitopathy composite evaluation responders at 24 weeks was higher in the ST group (21 [51%] of 41 patients) than the NST group (11 [28%] of 39 patients; attributable risk 0·23 [95% CI 0·02-0·44]; p=0·042). 26 adverse events occurred in 21 (24%) of 88 patients in the safety population. One (2%) of 44 patients in each group required treatment discontinuation, with no serious adverse events and no difference between groups.

INTERPRETATION

Addition of oral atorvastatin to an ivGC regimen improved Graves' orbitopathy outcomes in patients with moderate-to-severe, active eye disease who were hypercholesterolaemic. Future phase 3 studies, which could potentially recruit patients regardless of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration, are required to confirm this association.

FUNDING

Associazione Allievi Endocrinologia Pisana.

Statins Decrease the Risk of Orbitopathy in Newly Diagnosed Patients with Graves Disease

CONTEXT/OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of statins and other lipid-lowering agents on the development of Graves orbitopathy (GO) in patients with newly diagnosed Graves disease (GD).

METHODS

Our sample included the full adult population of individuals living in Sweden with newly diagnosed GD between 2005 and 2018 (n = 34 894). We compared the GO incidence in statin users (n = 5574) and nonusers (n = 34 409) by applying Cox regression with a time-varying exposure variable. We adjusted for age, sex, and treatment for hyperthyroidism in the multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

Periods of nonusage lasted for a median of 4.3 years (interquartile range [IQR] 1.2-8.4), whereas periods of usage lasted for a median of 4.7 years (IQR 2.0-8.1). Among statin users, 77.1% had used simvastatin, 28.9% atorvastatin, and 8.2% had used other statins. Statin users were found to be significantly less likely to develop GO. In the main analysis based on the full cohort, the unadjusted hazard ratio (HR) was 0.74 (CI 0.65-0.84, P < .001), whereas full adjustment altered the effect to 0.87 (CI 0.76-1.00, P = .04). The main results were largely driven by men; the fully adjusted HR was 0.78 (CI 0.58-1.04, P = .09) for men and 0.91 (CI 0.79-1.06, P = .24) for women. Lipid-lowering agents other than statins did not exhibit a similar protective effect.

CONCLUSION

In newly diagnosed patients with GD, treatment with statins may protect against the development of GO. Statins should be investigated in a clinical trial as a preventive treatment for GO in newly diagnosed patients with GD.

Current Knowledge on Graves' Orbitopathy

(1) Background: Graves' orbitopathy (GO) is an autoimmune inflammation of the orbital tissues and the most common extra-thyroid symptom of Graves' disease (GD). Mild cases of GO are often misdiagnosed, which prolongs the diagnostic and therapeutic process, leading to exacerbation of the disease. A severe course of GO may cause permanent vision loss. (2) Methods: The article presents an analysis of GO-its etiopathogenesis, diagnostics, current treatment and potential future therapeutic options based on a review of the currently available literature of the subject. (3) Results: Current treatment of the active GO consists predominantly in intravenous glucocorticoids (GCs) administration in combination with orbital radiotherapy. The growing knowledge on the pathogenesis of the disease has contributed to multiple trials of the use of immunosuppressive drugs and monoclonal antibodies which may be potentially effective in the treatment of GO. Immunosuppressive treatment is not effective in patients in whom a chronic inflammatory process has caused fibrous changes in the orbits. In such cases surgical treatment is performed-including orbital decompression, adipose tissue removal, oculomotor muscle surgery, eyelid alignment and blepharoplasty. (4) Conclusions: Management of GO is difficult and requires interdisciplinary cooperation in endocrinology; ophthalmology, radiation oncology and surgery. The possibilities of undertaking a reliable assessment and comparison of the efficacy and safety of the therapeutic strategies are limited due to the heterogeneity of the available studies conducted mostly on small group of patients, with no comparison with classic systemic steroid therapy. The registration by FDA of Teprotumumab, an IGF1-R antagonist, in January 2020 may be a milestone in future management of active GO. However, many clinical questions require to be investigated first.

Risk Factors of Thyroid Eye Disease

OBJECTIVE

To examine risk factors that might be associated with thyroid eye disease (TED) in patients with Graves' disease (GD), which may guide physicians in the prevention and management of TED.

METHODS

Medline and Embase were searched for articles discussing risk factors of TED. Comparisons were made between GD patients with and without TED, and between active and inactive TED GD patients. Weighted mean differences (WMDs) and odds ratios (ORs) were determined for continuous and dichotomous outcomes, respectively. Results were pooled with random effects using the DerSimonian and Laird model.

RESULTS

Fifty-six articles were included in the analysis. Smoking, inclusive of current and previous smoking status, was a significant risk factor for TED (OR: 2.401; CI: 1.958-2.945; P < .001). Statistical significance was found upon meta-regression between male sex and the odds of smoking and TED (β = 1.195; SE = 0.436; P = .013). Other risk factors were also examined, and patients with TED were significantly older than those without TED (WMD: 1.350; CI: 0.328-2.372; P = .010). While both age (WMD: 5.546; CI: 3.075-8.017; P < .001) and male sex (OR: 1.819; CI: 1.178-2.808; P = .007) were found to be significant risk factors for active TED patients compared to inactive TED patients, no statistical significance was found for family history, thyroid status, cholesterol levels, or body mass index.

CONCLUSION

Factors such as smoking, sex, and age predispose GD patients to TED, and TED patients to active TED. A targeted approach in the management of GD and TED is required to reduce the modifiable risk factor of smoking.

Therapeutic Effect of Guggulsterone in Primary Cultured Orbital Fibroblasts Obtained From Patients with Graves' Orbitopathy

Purpose

Inflammation, hyaluronan production, and adipogenesis are the main pathological events leading to Graves' orbitopathy (GO). Guggulsterone (GS), a phytosterol found in the resin of the guggul plant, is a well-known treatment for several inflammatory disorders, such as arthritis, obesity, and hyperlipidemia. Here we investigated the effects of GS treatment on GO pathology.

Methods

Using primary cultures of orbital fibroblasts from GO patients and non-GO controls, we examined the effects of GS on hyaluronan production and the production of proinflammatory cytokines induced by interleukin (IL)-1β, using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis, western blots, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Further, adipogenic differentiation was evaluated by quantification of Oil Red O staining and assessment of protein levels of peroxisome proliferator activator gamma (PPARγ), CCAAT-enhancer-binding proteins (C/EBP) α and β, and sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1 (SREBP-1).

Results

Treatment with noncytotoxic concentrations of GS resulted in the dose-dependent inhibition of IL-1β-induced inflammatory cytokines, including IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, and COX-2, at both mRNA and protein levels. The hyaluronan level was also significantly suppressed by GS. Moreover, GS significantly decreased the formation of lipid droplets and expression of PPARγ, C/EBP α/β, and SREBP-1 in a dose-dependent manner. GS pretreatment attenuated the phosphorylation of nuclear factor-kappa B induced by IL-1β.

Conclusions

Our data show significant inhibitory effects of GS on inflammation, production of hyaluronan, and adipogenesis in orbital fibroblasts. To our knowledge, this is the first in vitro preclinical evidence of the therapeutic effect of GS in GO.

Epidemiology, Natural History, Risk Factors, and Prevention of Graves' Orbitopathy

GO is the most frequent extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves' disease, although it may rarely occur in euthyroid/hypothyroid patients with chronic autoimmune thyroiditis. It is a relatively infrequent disorder, and men tend to have more severe ocular involvement at an older age. The prevalence of GO is lower than in the past among patients with recent onset Graves' hyperthyroidism, and moderate-to-severe forms requiring aggressive treatments are no more than 5-6% of all cases of GO. After an initial inflammatory (active) phase and a phase of stabilization (plateau phase), GO tends to improve and eventually inactivates (inactive or burnt-out phase). Minimal-to-mild GO often remits spontaneously, but complete restitutio ad integrum almost never occurs when GO is more than mild. Several risk factors contribute to its development on a yet undefined genetic background. Cigarette smoking is the most important of them. Early diagnosis, control and removal of modifiable risk factors, early treatment of mild forms of GO may effectively limit the risk of progression to more severe forms, which have a profound and dramatic impact on the quality of life of affected individuals, and remain a therapeutic challenge, often requiring long-lasting and multiple medical and surgical therapies.

Update on the clinical assessment and management of thyroid eye disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To offer an update on advances and controversies in the assessment, investigation and treatment of thyroid eye disease (TED), a disfiguring orbital autoimmune disease, which can manifest with diplopia and threaten not only sight - but also life.

RECENT FINDINGS

Developments in biomarkers and imaging are helping to tailor the management of patients. Emerging therapies target different pathways in the disease and are informed by studies into TED pathogenesis: the last 2 years has, for example, seen the culmination of a two-decade long bench-to-bedside story in which an original focus on the IGF1 receptor has translated into an effective treatment for proptosis in thyroid eye disease. Whether this will result in a real-world reduction in TED-related morbidity will depend on access; commercial pricing decisions may preclude widespread adoption of novel therapies.

SUMMARY

Thyroid eye disease research is enjoying a renaissance with advances in both monitoring and treatment coupled with a renewed emphasis on a holisitic approach, which includes aesthetic care for patients; this is perhaps the most exciting time to be part of the international thyroid eye disease community in decades - for physicians, surgeons and patients. The commercial window for break-through drugs are narrowing with an array of new therapeutic agents in the pipeline over the coming decade.

Cholesterol Serum Levels and Use of Statins in Graves' Orbitopathy: A New Starting Point for the Therapy

Graves' Orbitopathy (GO) is the most frequent extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves' disease (GD). Its ultimate cause remains unclear, but it is commonly considered an autoimmune disorder due to self recognition of autoantigens constitutively expressed by orbital fibroblasts (OFs), and thyroid epithelial cells. High dose intravenous glucocorticoids (ivGC) are the most commonly used treatment for moderately severe and active GO. However, based on the complex pathogenesis of GO, a number of factors may have a protective and maybe a therapeutic role. The use of other medications improving the effect of GC may increase the overall effectiveness of the therapy and reduce GC doses, thereby limiting side effects. Recently, a possible protective role of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme reductase inhibitors, the so-called statins, and perhaps of lowering cholesterol levels, has been proposed. Thus, statins have been reported to be associated with a reduced frequency of GO in GD patients and in recent cross-sectional and retrospective studies a significant correlation was found between the occurrence of GO and both total and LDL-cholesterol in patients with a GD of relatively recent onset, suggesting a role of cholesterol in the development of GO. Moreover, a correlation was found between the GO clinical activity score and total as well as LDL-cholesterol in untreated GO patients, depending on GO duration, indicating a role of cholesterol on GO activity. Therefore, statin treatment may be beneficial for GO. Here we review this subject, which offers new therapeutic perspectives for patients with GO.

Factors associated with the efficacy of intravenous methylprednisolone in moderate-to-severe and active thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy: A single-centre retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

Intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) is recommended as the first-line treatment for moderate-to-severe and active thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO). This study aimed to identify potential predictors and establish a multivariable prediction model for the efficacy of IVMP therapy.

DESIGN

A single-centre retrospective study.

PATIENTS

A total of 302 consecutive patients diagnosed with moderate-to-severe and active TAO who underwent the full course of IVMP therapy were included.

METHODS

Participants were sequentially divided into the training set (n = 200) and the validation set (n = 102). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent predictors and establish the predictive model.

RESULTS

In addition to the pretreatment clinical activity score (OR = 3.506, P < 0.001), elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels during treatment (OR = 0.145, P = 0.005), pretreatment anti-TSH receptor antibody levels (OR = 0.061, P < 0.001) and duration of eye symptoms (OR = 0.878, P = 0.017), a significant relationship was found between therapeutic efficacy and the pretreatment triglyceride levels (OR = 0.090, P = 0.001). The prediction model showed good calibration and excellent discrimination, with an area under curve of 0.915 (P < 0.001) and 0.885 (P < 0.001) in the training and validation sets, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides some novel insights into the factors associated with the efficacy of IVMP therapy. A multivariable prediction model has been established and validated to help determine the indication and prognosis of IVMP therapy. Moreover, several suggestions have been made in the management of TAO patients: early diagnosis and treatment (within 15 months); prompt restoration and maintenance of euthyroidism, especially meticulous control of TSH levels (≤5 μIU/mL); and regular monitoring of triglyceride levels.

A Renewed Focus on the Association Between Thyroid Hormones and Lipid Metabolism

Thyroid dysfunction, manifesting as either overt or subclinical hypothyroidism, negatively affects lipid metabolism: this leads to hypercholesterolemia which progressively increases the risk for cardiovascular disease and, potentially, mortality. Hypercholesterolemia in hypothyroidism is mainly due to a reduction in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor activity, this accompanied by concomitant diminishing control by triiodothyronine (T3) of sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP-2), which modulates cholesterol biosynthesis by regulating rate-limit degrading enzyme 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoA) activity. Recently, 3,5-diiodothyronine (T2), a natural thyroid hormone derivative, was found to repress the transcription factor carbohydrate-response element-binding protein (ChREBP) and also to be involved in lipid catabolism and lipogenesis, though via a different pathway than that of T3. While thyroid hormone could therapeutically reverse the dyslipidemic profile commonly occurring in hypothyroidism, it should be borne in mind that the potency of the effects may be age-and sex-dependent. Thyroid hormone administration possibly also sustains and enhances the efficacy of hypolipidemic drugs, such as statins, ezetimibe and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), in patients with dyslipidemia and hypothyroidism.