What are the most common causes?

Dupuytren’s contracture is most often caused by genetic factors. There is often a history of the disease in the family.

What are the symptoms?

The condition progresses gradually from a visible thickening of the skin on the palm, sometimes with dimples or bumps. It is initially painful but the pain eases as the disease progresses. Eventually, the fingers begin to be pulled back toward the palm by cords of tissue that form from the bumps. The ring finger and pinky are most often affected.

How is it diagnosed?

In its earliest stage, Dupuytren’s contracture is often mistaken for trigger finger. The condition becomes easier to diagnose as the fascia thickening becomes visible.

Tapping the nerve that runs through the forearm and wrist and flexing the wrist will cause sensations akin to electric shocks.

The forearm and wrist may be tender to the touch.

The condition may recur or even spread to other areas of the hand after surgery. Should this happen, surgery may be required to improve hand function. An injury can also aggravate Dupuytren’s contracture.

The progression of the disease varies with each patient and depends greatly on personal and hereditary risk factors.