Mechanisms in endocrinology. Role of emotional stress in the pathophysiology of Graves' disease

Eur J Endocrinol. 2012 Dec 10;168(1):R13-8. doi: 10.1530/EJE-12-0539. Print 2013 Jan.

Abstract

The role of stress in the pathophysiology of Graves' disease is suggested by several clinical observations, by recent advances in immunology and by better understanding of autoimmune diseases which provides new insights into potential effects of stress hormones on T helper cell imbalance involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Stress management should therefore be an important part of the treatment of Graves' disease, as stress reduction may improve the effect of therapy. However, this field still requires interventional data to support stress management in the treatment of Graves' disease.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Autoimmune Diseases / immunology
  • Female
  • Glucocorticoids / physiology
  • Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone / physiology
  • Graves Disease / immunology
  • Graves Disease / physiopathology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Stress, Psychological / complications*
  • T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer / pathology

Substances

  • Glucocorticoids
  • Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone