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Dupuytren’s Disease

Morbus dupuytren 1 (fcm)

Dupuytren’s Disease

Dupuytren’s disease (also called Dupuytren’s contracture) is a hand condition that affects the connective tissue beneath the skin of your palm. Over time, this tissue thickens and tightens, pulling one or more fingers—usually the ring and pinky—into a bent position. This condition can make everyday tasks like shaking hands, putting your hand in your pocket, or grasping objects more difficult.

While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, the condition is more common in older adults and tends to run in families. It progresses slowly and is often painless, though the limited finger movement can be frustrating and affect hand function.

HAND & WRIST ANATOMY

Dupuytren’s disease involves the palmar fascia, a layer of tissue that lies just under the skin in the palm. Normally, this tissue helps stabilize the skin and grip. With Dupuytren’s, this fascia thickens and forms cords of scar-like tissue, which can eventually pull fingers inward.

Morbus dupuytren 3 (fcm)

SYMPTOMS

  • A firm lump or nodule in the palm, near the base of the fingers
  • Thickened or dimpled skin in the palm
  • Development of fibrous cords that extend toward the fingers
  • Inability to straighten fingers completely (especially the ring and pinky fingers)
  • Gradual worsening over months or years

The condition usually doesn’t cause pain but can interfere with hand function over time.

CAUSES

The exact cause of Dupuytren’s disease is unknown, but several factors are associated with an increased risk:

  • Genetics – It often runs in families, especially those of Northern European descent
  • Age – Most common in people over age 50
  • Sex – More frequent and severe in men
  • Health Conditions – May be associated with diabetes, epilepsy, or liver disease
  • Lifestyle – Smoking and alcohol use may also increase risk

It’s not caused by overuse or injury, unlike many other hand conditions.

TREATMENT

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Treatment for Dupuytren’s disease depends on the severity of the contracture and how much it interferes with your daily life. Early stages may require monitoring, while more advanced cases may benefit from therapy or procedures.

Non-Surgical

  • Observation – In mild cases, no immediate treatment is needed unless finger movement becomes restricted
  • Stretching and Massage – Physical therapy may help maintain flexibility
  • Enzyme Injections – An enzyme called collagenase can be injected to break down the cords under the skin. This treatment may allow the doctor to straighten the finger manually afterward.

Surgery

For more advanced cases, surgical options may be recommended:

  • Fasciotomy – A small incision is made to cut the tight cord
  • Subtotal Palmar Fasciectomy – Removal of the thickened tissue in the palm
  • Skin Grafting – In severe cases where large areas are removed

Recovery includes physical therapy to restore motion and reduce stiffness. While treatment can restore function, the condition can return over time.

Hand & Wrist
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