About Dupuytren’s Disease

Dupuytren’s (pronounced “DOO puh trenz”) disease is a progressive condition that primarily affects the hand. It begins with changes in the palm — lumps may develop at the base of the finger and the skin’s appearance may change. Then, the fingers gradually curl downward toward the palm. This curling (called contracture) prevents the fingers from straightening. Because of this, the disease is sometimes referred to as Dupuytren’s contracture.

As the amount of contracture increases, mobility of the fingers decreases. Even when the amount of contracture is small, it can be difficult to do ordinary things—tying shoes, opening jars or putting on gloves, for example. Because Dupuytren’s disease is progressive, its impact becomes more and more noticeable and disruptive over time.

What is Dupuytren’s Disease?
Learn about the causes of Dupuytren’s disease, the parts of the hand that may be affected and who is most likely to get the disease.

Disease Progression
Learn how Dupuytren’s disease progresses, as well as factors that can influence progression and how the disease is diagnosed.

Living with Dupuytren’s Disease
Learn how people with Dupuytren’s disease cope with changes in hand mobility.

Myths vs. Facts
Learn some common misconceptions about Dupuytren’s disease.