Final answer:
Graves' disease is an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid gland. It is caused by the production of autoantibodies to the TSH receptor, leading to overstimulation of the thyroid gland and hyperthyroidism. The correct answer is option B .
Step-by-step explanation:
Graves' disease is an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid gland. It is caused by the production of autoantibodies to the TSH receptor. These autoantibodies mimic the action of the TSH hormone by binding to the receptor, which leads to overstimulation of the thyroid gland.
In a person with Graves' disease, the feedback loop and regulated production of thyroid hormones shown in the diagram would be disrupted. The autoantibodies would continuously stimulate the TSH receptor, resulting in the constant production of thyroid hormones, leading to hyperthyroidism.
Some common symptoms of Graves' disease include heat intolerance, rapid and irregular heartbeat, weight loss, goiter, and bulging eyes. The diagnosis of Graves' disease can be challenging because the autoantibodies may stimulate the thyroid to produce too much thyroid hormone or block thyroid hormone production entirely.