In The Nurse Practitioner June 1997
          Hyperthyroidism - Diagnosis and Management of Graves Disease
                      BY JUDITH S. SCHILLING, PhD, FNP

From the Abstract: Hyperthyroidism, or thyrotoxicosis, results when the
body's tissues are exposed to excessive levels of thyroid hormone.
Graves' disease is the most common form of hyperthyroidism, often
occurring in young adults. It is an autoimmune disorder with an
important genetic component. Hyperthyroidism's hallmarks include
goiter and myriad signs and symptoms related to increased metabolic
activity in virtually all body tissues. Graves' disease is
treated with antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine, and/or surgery, plus
supportive therapy. A good treatment outcome can be expected;
long-term follow-up is indicated. (I found many many sites by searching
"graves disease" on the web).

"Thyroid storm" is an emergency, requires immed. hospitalization and tx. But
Graves dis. is not an emergency as such, but of course requires tx as well.
The hcp is obligated to give all tx options and discuss risks/benefits of
same. Pt decides on the tx option.

Laurie Wheeler, RN, MN, IBCLC
Violet Louisiana, USA



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