The condition most often affects the ring and pinky fingers.
Over time, Dupuytren's contracture can cause one or more fingers to stay bent toward the palm. This can complicate everyday activities, such as placing hands in pockets or shaking hands.
Treatment, if needed, includes using a needle to break the tissue that's keeping the finger bent, enzyme injections to soften the tissue, and surgery.
More than 200,000 US cases per year
Treatable by a medical professional
Usually self-diagnosable
Lab tests or imaging not required
Chronic: can last for years or be lifelong
Dupuytren’s (du-pwe-TRANZ) contracture is a hand deformity that usually develops over years. The condition affects a layer of tissue that lies under the skin of your palm. Knots of tissue form under the skin — eventually creating a thick cord that can pull one or more fingers into a bent position.
The affected fingers can’t be straightened completely, which can complicate everyday activities such as placing your hands in your pockets, putting on gloves or shaking hands.
Dupuytren’s contracture mainly affects the two fingers farthest from the thumb, and occurs most often in older men of Northern European descent. A number of treatments are available to slow the progression of Dupuytren’s contracture and relieve symptoms.
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