The most common early signs explained
Many people first discover Dupuytren's disease by accident.
They notice a small lump in the palm while washing their hands, applying hand cream, or shaking somebody's hand. Often, it causes no pain and little inconvenience, making it easy to dismiss.
The image in this section shows some of the common features seen in early Dupuytren's disease. Not every person develops all of these changes, and the condition can look quite different from one hand to another.
Some people have just a single lump. Others develop skin pitting, cords, or several nodules. Dupuytren's disease can look quite different from one person to another. If you recognise any of the features shown above, particularly if they are new or changing, it may be worth seeking specialist advice.
Many people with Dupuytren's disease notice one or more of the following:
You do not need to have all of these features. Even a single lump in the palm may be worth having assessed.
Dupuytren's disease usually develops slowly.
Many people first notice a small nodule in the palm. Over time, the tissue beneath the skin may become thicker and cords can develop. In some people, these cords gradually shorten and begin to pull the fingers towards the palm.
Not everybody follows the same path. Some people experience very little change over many years, while others notice that it progresses more quickly.
Patients often hear these terms but are not always sure what they mean.
A nodule is a firm lump beneath the skin of the palm. This is often the first thing people notice.
A cord is a rope-like thickening beneath the skin. Despite what many people assume, cords are often present long before any finger bending develops.
A contracture occurs when a finger can no longer fully straighten. This is the stage that often begins to interfere with everyday activities.
Dupuytren's disease is primarily a genetic condition.
Cells within the tissue beneath the skin become overactive and gradually produce excess scar-like tissue. This process leads to the formation of nodules and cords.
Exactly why the condition develops remains incompletely understood, but inherited genetic factors appear to play the most important role.
Many patients can identify a parent, grandparent or sibling who experienced similar hand changes.
Dupuytren's disease is common and affects around two million people in the United Kingdom. Factors associated with a higher likelihood of developing the condition include:
Although more common in men, women frequently develop Dupuytren's disease too.
This is one of the most common questions patients ask.
Unfortunately, there is no simple answer.
Some people experience little change over many years. Others develop additional nodules, more extensive cords and increasing finger bending.
The important thing is not simply what the hand looks like today, but also whether it appears to be changing over time.
This is one of the main reasons patients seek specialist assessment. Understanding whether the disease is stable or progressing often helps guide future treatment decisions.
Radiotherapy treatment at Dupuytren’s UK is covered by most major private medical insurance providers and we also offer a range of self-pay options.
Your treatment at Dupuytren’s UK can be funded by a number of private medical insurance providers, including Bupa, Vitality and WPA. Other private medical insurance providers may fund your treatment on a case-by-case basis. All our services are available for patients who are looking to self-pay too. We accept a variety of payment methods and will provide you with a detailed quote for your treatment. If you’d like an estimate of the costs for your care, contact us through the “Contact” page.
It may be worth seeking specialist advice if:
Early assessment can help establish whether the condition appears stable or whether there are signs of progression.
Concerned about Dupuytren's Contracture or Ledderhose Disease? Book in your free call with Dr Shaffer to discuss how we can help.
