Which clinical manifestation is associated with Graves' disease?

The clinical manifestation associated with Graves' disease is characterized by symptoms stemming from hyperthyroidism, as this condition causes an overproduction of thyroid hormones. Among the signs linked to Graves' disease, periodic palpitations are significant because the increased thyroid hormone levels lead to heightened metabolic activity, which can accelerate the heart rate and cause an irregular heartbeat.

Moreover, unexplained weight loss occurs because hyperthyroidism increases the body's metabolism, leading individuals to burn calories at an accelerated rate, often resulting in a caloric deficit despite normal or increased food intake. Thus, the combination of palpitations and weight loss strongly aligns with the pathophysiological changes seen in Graves' disease, making this manifestation a hallmark of the condition.

In contrast, the other manifestations listed do not reflect the hypermetabolic state induced by hyperthyroidism seen in Graves' disease. Increased appetite with weight gain is more associated with hypothyroidism rather than hyperthyroidism, while cold intolerance and slow heartbeat are classic signs of hypothyroidism, indicating a decrease in metabolic activity. Lastly, a persistent cough would not typically be connected to thyroid dysregulation, and weight stability does not align with the expected effects of excess thyroid hormones.