Dupuytren's contracture
Thickening of tissue in the palm that gradually bends the fingers inward.
Overview
Dupuytren's contracture is a progressive thickening of the connective tissue in the palm, which can pull one or more fingers into a bent position. It is usually painless; treatment is considered when it limits hand function.
Symptoms
- Firm nodules or cords in the palm
- Gradual bending of the fingers, often the ring and little
- Difficulty flattening the hand
- Usually painless progression
Causes
- Genetic predisposition
- Associations with diabetes and smoking
- More common in older men
Treatment
- Monitoring for mild cases
- Hand therapy to maintain function
- Needle release or enzyme injection
- Surgery for significant contracture