Evaluating Graves’ Orbitopathy

Graves’ Orbitopathy (GO) is an immune-mediated disorder causing inflammation and expansion of orbital fat and muscle. The resulting spectrum of ocular and orbital changes may cause significant visual and cosmetic morbidity and are graded as disease severity. The disease follows a biphasic course with an active or progressive phase followed by a quiescent or stable phase: the temporal status is graded as disease activity. Grading systems for GO include Werner’s NO SPECS and European Group on Graves’ Orbitopathy (EUGOGO)’s severity scales, the Clinical Activity Score (CAS) and the VISA Classification (for severity and activity). Diagnosis of GO is based on recognition of clinical features and may be supported by thyroid function and immune testing, and orbital imaging. The endocrinologist or internist may play an important role in early recognition and diagnosis of GO, in grading severity and activity, and in arranging appropriate referral to an ophthalmologist based on this evaluation.