Gra es' disease is an autoimmune disorder, influenced by a
combination of environmental and genetic factors. Genetic
factors contribute to approximately 20% to 30% of overall
susceptibility. Other factors include infection, excessive
iodide intake, stress, female gender, steroids, and toxins.
Smoking has been implicated in the worsening of Graves'
ophthalmopathy. Graves' disease has also been associated
with infectious agents such as Yersinia enterocolitica and Borrelia
burgdoiferi.