The
prevalence of adrenocortical (ACAb),
islet cell (ICAb) and
thyroid microsomal (TMAb)
autoantibodies was determined by
indirect immunofluorescence, in 88 consecutive
patients with
Graves' disease. ACAb, ICAb and TMAb positivity was seen in 3 (3.3%), 10 (11%) and 66 (75%)
patients respectively. Among these one
patient had both ACAb and ICAb positivity.
Diabetes mellitus was found to be present in two (2.3%; both ICAb positive) of the 88
patients studied. Two of the four ICAb positive
patients had loss of first phase
insulin response to intravenous
glucose. A significant proportion of
patients of
Graves' disease had associated
islet cell and/or adrenal
autoimmunity. A high index of suspicion for associated endocrine
autoimmunity should be maintained while dealing with subjects of
Graves' disease.