» Introduction
Dupuytren's disease is an abnormal thickening of the fascia (the tissue just beneath the skin of
the palm). It often starts with firm lumps in the palm. In some patients, firm cords will develop
beneath the skin, stretching from the palm into the fingers. Gradually, these
cords may cause the fingers to bend into the palm. Although the skin may
become involved in the process, the deeper structures (such as the tendons) are not directly
involved. Occasionally, the disease will cause thickening on top of the finger knuckles (knuckle
pads), or nodules or cords within the soles of the feet (plantar fibromatosis).
What causes it?
The cause of Dupuytren's disease is unknown but may be associated with certain biochemical
factors within the involved fascia. The problem is more common in men over age 40 and in
people of northern European descent. There is no proven evidence that hand injuries or specific
occupational exposures lead to a higher risk of developing Dupuytren's disease.
