Symptoms and Causes of Dupuytren’s Disease

In the early stages of Dupuytren’s contracture, you’re likely to experience some changes in one or both of your hands, notably the development of lumps in your palm. Although there is no singular cause, there are a number of factors that increase the likelihood you’ll develop the condition.

Dupuytren’s contracture symptoms

The symptoms of early-stage Dupuytren’s contracture are:

✔ Lumps in the palm of your hand
✔ Puckered or dimpled skin on the palm of your hand
✔ Cords from your palms to your fingers

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, and they’ve gotten worse over the last twelve months, you should book an appointment at Dupuytren's UK.

The condition can worsen to cause a fixed bending of the fingers called a contracture. Treatment in the early stages aims to prevent a contracture forming.

Who does Dupuytren’s contracture affect?

Dupuytren’s contracture is a common condition that affects up to two million people in the United Kingdom (3% of the population). Most cases occur in middle-aged and older people, but it can develop in younger adults. You may also be more prone to the disease if your family has a history of the condition.

Dupuytren’s contracture causes

There’s no single cause for Dupuytren’s contracture, but there are several risk factors that are associated with an increased risk of developing it, including:

  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Liver disease
  • Medication for epilepsy
  • Manual labour (including vibration)
  • Injury to your hand