The therapeutic revolution in thyroid eye disease: from orbital radiotherapy to teprotumumab and AI
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Thyroid eye disease (TED) is a vision-threatening and quality-of-life-impairing manifestation of autoimmune thyroid disease, driven by orbital fibroblast activation, inflammation, and tissue remodeling. This review synthesizes current evidence on TED epidemiology and pathogenesis, with a particular focus on the pathogenic synergy between the thyrotropin receptor (TSHR) and the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R). We discuss how this receptor complex propagates intracellular signaling that leads to disease hallmarks: fibroblast proliferation, glycosaminoglycan secretion, and adipogenesis. While we outline the established paradigm of management-encompassing glucocorticoids, orbital radiotherapy, and surgery-a key emphasis is placed on the recent therapeutic revolution ushered in by targeted biological agents, most notably IGF-1R inhibition. As well as research on new targets for immunotherapy such as Tregs and other aspects such as IL-6 or TNF-α. Finally, we explore the nascent role of artificial intelligence in refining diagnosis and prognostic assessment. This overview aims to equip clinicians and researchers with a forward-looking perspective on the evolving landscape of TED management.
Source: Frontiers in Medicine
Authors: XiaoLi Yuan, Han Li, Feng Wang
Institutions: Sichuan University, West China Hospital of Sichuan University
Language: English
Subfield: Pathology and Forensic Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,801
OpenAlex ID: W7128058148