Dupuytren's contracture

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Introduction Signs and symptoms Risk factors When to seek medical advice

Screening and diagnosis Complications Treatment

Introduction

Dupuytren's contracture is a rare hand deformity in which the connective tissue (fascia) under the skin of the palm thickens and scars. Knots (nodes) and cords of tissue form under the skin, often pulling one or more of the fingers into a bent (contracted) position. Though the fingers affected by Dupuytren's contracture bend normally, they can't be straightened, making it difficult to use your hand. Dupuytren's contracture complicates everyday activities such as placing your hands in your pockets, putting on gloves or shaking hands.

Dupuytren's contracture is rarely painful, though sometimes the bumps of tissue on your palm can be sensitive to touch. Men are more likely than women to develop Dupuytren's contracture. It's more common in older adults, usually developing in people in their 50s and 60s. Dupuytren's contracture is more common in whites of Northern European heritage. The condition rarely affects people of color.

Some doctors prefer the term Dupuytren's disease, rather than Dupuytren's contracture, since some people don't experience the bent fingers — the contracture part of the disease.

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Signs and symptoms