What autoimmune disorder is characterized by the production of antibodies that stimulate the overproduction of thyroid hormones?

Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system produces antibodies that target the thyroid gland, specifically stimulating the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptor. This stimulation leads to an excessive production of thyroid hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). As a result, individuals with Graves' disease often exhibit symptoms such as weight loss, increased appetite, nervousness, tremors, sweating, and sometimes goiter, which is an enlargement of the thyroid gland.

The mechanism is primarily through the action of thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI) that mimic TSH, overriding the normal regulatory feedback mechanisms that would usually balance hormone production. This ultimately causes a state of hyperthyroidism, making Graves' disease distinct in its pathophysiology compared to other thyroid disorders.

In contrast, other conditions mentioned in the options encompass different processes. Cushing's syndrome involves excess cortisol production and is unrelated to thyroid hormone regulation. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is characterized by autoimmune destruction of the thyroid gland leading to hypothyroidism rather than hyperthyroidism. Thyroiditis refers to inflammation of the thyroid, which can have various causes but does not specifically indicate the stimulation of hormone over