Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 88%
Simulated
The nurse assesses a male client with hyperthyroidism and identifies that the client has exophthalmos and lid retraction. Which pathophysiological factor is the likely cause of these findings?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
Exophthalmos (proptosis) and lid retraction in hyperthyroidism (Graves' disease) result from orbital edema and inflammation due to glycosaminoglycan deposition and lymphocytic infiltration in retro-orbital tissues, causing fluid accumulation and forward displacement of the eyeball. Option A is correct. is incorrect (eyes are hypermobile), is not typical, and is unrelated.