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Dupuytren's contracture is a fixed flexion contracture of the hand, caused by an abnormal thickening of the palmar aponeurosis (the tough tissue underneath the skin of the palms and fingers). The actual cause for this abnormal thickening, however, is not known.
The onset is gradual, often beginning as a tender lump felt under the skin of the palm. Over time, the lump disappears, and a tough band of tissue develops, causing the fingers to curl up towards the palm. The ring and little fingers tend to be most commonly affected. As the contractures increase, use of the affected hand may be significantly impaired.
Risk Factors for Dupuytren's Contracture:
The actual cause is unknown. However, there are certain risk factors which have been associated with the condition, and it has been found to primarily affect:
• Men (men are about 10 times more likely to develop this condition)
• People over the age of 40
• Those with a family history of Dupuytren's contractures
• People of Scandinavian or Northern European ancestry
• People with liver cirrhosis
Dupuytren's contractures are also associated with smoking, drinking and certain medical conditions, such as diabetes mellitus, thyroid problems and epilepsy.
Treatment of Dupuytren's Contracture:
The goal of treatment is to try to keep the affected hand working as best as it can.
• Injections are sometimes given for pain-relief.
• Surgery is recommended when the contractures significantly limit hand function. Surgery generally involves opening the skin over the affected cords and excising the fibrous tissue. As surgery is not curative, the condition does sometimes recur and repeat surgery may be required.
Find a Hand Surgeon
The article above is meant to provide general information and does not replace a doctor's consultation.
Please see your doctor for professional advice.
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