Dupuytren's disease

A condition that deforms the hand, causing fingers to curl toward the palm.

Other names[edit | edit source]

Dupuytren's contracture

The cause is unknown.

Family history, alcohol use, diabetes, and smoking are described.

The condition is more common after age 40.

Dupuytren's disease of the right palmar region

Men are affected more often than women.

The ring finger is affected most often, followed by the little, middle, and index fingers.

It starts as a nodule or lump which thickens in to a band, which causes difficulty to extend fingers over time.

Diagnosis can usually be made from the typical signs of the condition.

Treatment involves corticosteroid courses
Collagenase injected into the thickened tissue to break it down and has been shown to be just as effective as surgery.
Surgery may be done to remove the affected tissue.
A procedure called aponeurotomy which involves inserting a small needle into the affected area to divide and cut the thickened bands of tissue.
Radiation is another treatment option for mild cases of contracture, when the tissue is not so thick.
Radiation therapy may stop or slow down thickening of the tissue. It is usually done only one time.

Dupuytren's disease Resources
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