exopthalmic goitre

exopthalmic goitre

a human condition resulting from the over-production and release of THYROXINE. The thyroid gland becomes swollen, producing a goitre. There is elevated metabolism, nervousness, irritability, loss of weight and the eyes are prominent and staring, with protrusion of the eyeballs. The abnormality can be treated with antithyroid drugs and/or surgical excision of part of the gland. Compare simple GOITRE, which is due to a lack of iodine.

Collins Dictionary of Biology, 3rd ed. © W. G. Hale, V. A. Saunders, J. P. Margham 2005