Dupuytren’s Disease

Dupuytren’s disease is a condition where abnormal thickening develops within the fascia of the palm and fingers.

Patients may notice:

• Nodules in the palm
• Thick cords beneath the skin
• Progressive bending of the fingers
• Difficulty placing the hand flat
• Difficulty placing hands into pockets or gloves

The condition most commonly affects the ring and little fingers and tends to progress gradually over time.

The exact cause is not fully understood, but genetic predisposition is important, particularly in people of Northern European ancestry.

Not all Dupuytren’s disease requires treatment. Intervention becomes more appropriate when contractures begin interfering with hand function or finger extension.

Treatment options may include:

• Needle fasciotomy
• Surgical fasciectomy
• Dermofasciectomy in selected recurrent or aggressive cases

The aim is restoration of finger extension and functional hand use while minimising recurrence and stiffness.

Does Dupuytren’s always continue progressing?

Not always. Some patients develop small nodules that remain relatively stable for years, while others gradually progress to more significant finger contractures over time.