Definition
Dupuytren’s contracture is a painless thickening and contracture of tissue beneath the skin on the palm of the hand and fingers.
Overview, Causes, &Risk Factors
The cause is unknown, but minor injury and your genes may make you more likely to develop this condition.
One or both hands may be affected. The ring finger is affected most often, followed by the little, middle, and index fingers.
A small, painless nodule develops in the connective tissue on the palm side of the hand and eventually develops into a cord-like band. In severe cases, it’s difficult or even impossible to extend the fingers.
The condition becomes more common after the age of 40. Men are affected more often than women. Risk factors are alcoholism, epilepsy, pulmonary tuberculosis, diabetes, and liver disease.
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Dupuytren’s contracture : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Dupuytren’s contracture : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Dupuytren’s contracture : Treatment
Review Date : 7/10/2009
Reviewed By : Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Assistant Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Dept of Orthopaedic Surgery. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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