Western Governors University (WGU) NURS2508 D236 Pathophysiology Practice Exam

Graves' disease is an autoimmune hyperthyroid condition that primarily affects the thyroid gland. The hallmark characteristics of this disease include a goiter, which is an enlargement of the thyroid gland due to overactivity, and exophthalmos, which refers to the protrusion of the eyes. These symptoms arise from the excessive production of thyroid hormones, leading to a range of systemic effects on metabolism and tissue function.

The goiter results from the overstimulation of the thyroid gland, while exophthalmos is attributed to the accumulation of glycosaaminoglycans behind the eyes, causing them to bulge. These manifestations are key identifiers of Graves' disease and assist healthcare providers in diagnosing the condition.

Conversely, the other choices presented do not pertain to Graves' disease specifically. Thyroid cancer is a separate entity that involves malignancy of the thyroid tissue, Ashkenazi syndrome refers to a specific and rare genetic condition not directly linked to thyroid function, and diabetes insipidus is unrelated to thyroid disorders and involves an issue with the regulation of water balance in the body.