What is Dupuytren's Contracture

Dupuytrens disease (DD) is a benign, slowly growing, progressive condition of unknown origin affecting the tissues just beneath the skin in the hand. The tissues thicken and often begin to contract. When the tissues attached to the fingers contract, the progression produces bent fingers, a condition known as Dupuytren's Contracture (DC).

Incidence

The incidence is 7.3 per 1,000 in whites, 2.4 per 1,000 in Hispanics, 1.3 per 1,000 in blacks and .7 per 1,000 in Asians. It is most common in people with Northern European or Scandinavian ancestry (an estimated 30% of Norwegians are affected).

Predisposing conditions

	There is often a genetic predisposition.
	Males are more frequently affected than females.
	The incidence increases after the age of fifty.
	Between 16% and 32% of all diabetics are affected.
	It is more common in those individuals with seizure disorders or thyroid problems.
	There is an association with smoking and drinking.
	A previous injury, infection, the use of vibrating tools, operation in or on the same hand or forearm often precedes the onset of a contracture.