apathetic hyperthyroidism /ap′əthet″ik/ , a form of Graves’ disease mainly affecting older adults that causes a placid, aged facial appearance, apathetic behavior, and inactivity rather than the symptoms usually associated with hyperthyroidism. Medical treatment not only restores normal behavioral activity but also results in a more youthful physical appearance. Untreated, the patient is likely to succumb to the effects of stress or acute illness.
