Dupuytren Contracture

The base of your thumb, your knuckles, second joint and top joint of your fingers are common sites for hand arthritis. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis are common types.

What is Dupuytren contracture?

Dupuytren contracture (also called Dupuytren disease) is an abnormal thickening of the skin in the palm of your hand at the base of your fingers. This thickened area may develop into a hard lump or thick band. Over time, it can cause one or more fingers to curl (contract), or pull sideways or in toward your palm.

The ring and little fingers are most commonly affected. In many cases, it affects both hands. Rarely, feet may also be affected.

Facts you should know about a Dupuytren’s contracture

• Dupuytren’s contracture can prevent full extension of the affected finger.
• Dupuytren’s contracture can prevent full extension of the affected finger.
• A Dupuytren’s contracture is a localized scar tissue formation in the palm.
• The precise cause of a Dupuytren’s contracture is not known.
• A Dupuytren’s contracture is sometimes inherited.
• A Dupuytren’s contracture can limit extension of the affected finger.

Who is at risk for Dupuytren’s contracture?

You may be at greater risk for Dupuytren’s contracture if you:

• Are older. The condition usually starts in middle age.
• Are male. It is more common in men than women.
• Have a Scandinavian or Northern European background. It is most common in people whose families come from these regions.
• Have a family history. The condition is often found in families, so it may be inherited.
• Take seizure medicine. It is linked with some medicines used to treat epileptic seizures.
• Smoke or abuse alcohol
• Have diabetes

Causes

Dupuytren contracture is believed to run in families (be hereditary). The exact cause is not known.

It may be linked to cigarette smoking, alcoholism, diabetes, nutritional deficiencies, or medicines used to treat seizures.

Signs and Symptoms

A Dupuytren’s contracture initially may cause only a minor painless lump in the palm of the hand near the base of the finger(s). A Dupuytren’s contracture most commonly affects the ring (fourth) finger and little finger, but it can affect any finger. A Dupuytren’s contracture can also affect one or both hands.

As a Dupuytren’s contracture progresses, it can lead to an inability to fully extend the affected finger from the flexed position. This can result in a loss of normal grasping.

Common symptoms may include:

Not being able to lay your hand flat on a table, palm down (called the tabletop test)
One or more small, sore lumps (nodules) in the palm. Over time, the soreness usually goes away.

• The nodules may thicken and contract or tighten. This can cause thick bands of tissue under the skin in the palm of the hand.
• Pits or grooves in the skin compressed by the contracted finger. These areas can become very sore and can lead to skin loss if they don’t heal well.
• Fingers are pulled forward
• Your hand is not able to work as well
• The symptoms of Dupuytren contracture may look like other health problems. Always see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

Book a Consultation

To learn more about Dupuytren contracture, or to book a consultation, please contact our Clinic today!

Dr Arash Izadpanah is one of the best Hand surgeons in Montreal. He will work closely with you to help you achieve your ideal results.