NOT true regarding Thyroid Eye disease?

• A. It can cause proptosis
• B. It primarily affects middle aged patients
• C. It affects females more than males
• D. Alcohol abuse is the #1 risk factor

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is recognizing the true risk factors and typical features of Thyroid Eye Disease. Proptosis occurs because the orbital tissues—fat and extraocular muscles—swell from autoimmune inflammation, so that finding is indeed characteristic. The condition most commonly presents in middle-aged adults, so that statement fits the usual age range. It also tends to occur more often in females, reflecting the higher incidence of Graves’ disease in women, though men may have more severe disease when it occurs.

Alcohol abuse is not identified as the primary risk factor for Thyroid Eye Disease. The strongest, well-established risk factor is smoking; smoking increases both the likelihood of developing TED and its severity, and quitting can help improve outcomes.