What are typical features of Dupuytren’s contracture?

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Multiple Choice

What are typical features of Dupuytren’s contracture?

Dupuytren’s contracture is defined by fibrous thickening of the palmar fascia that forms nodules and cords in the palm, gradually pulling the fingers into flexion. This process most often affects the ring and little fingers, with a common early sign being painless palmar nodules that can develop into a tight cord. Over time, these cords cause progressive flexion contractures at the metacarpophalangeal joints, and sometimes involve the proximal interphalangeal joints as well. This pattern—palmar nodules and a progressing flexion contracture of the fingers—fits the description best. Swelling on the dorsum with no contracture isn’t characteristic, loss of sensation in the median nerve distribution points to a nerve issue rather than fascia fibrosis, and hyperextension of the PIP joints describes a different deformity altogether.

Dupuytren’s contracture is defined by fibrous thickening of the palmar fascia that forms nodules and cords in the palm, gradually pulling the fingers into flexion. This process most often affects the ring and little fingers, with a common early sign being painless palmar nodules that can develop into a tight cord. Over time, these cords cause progressive flexion contractures at the metacarpophalangeal joints, and sometimes involve the proximal interphalangeal joints as well. This pattern—palmar nodules and a progressing flexion contracture of the fingers—fits the description best. Swelling on the dorsum with no contracture isn’t characteristic, loss of sensation in the median nerve distribution points to a nerve issue rather than fascia fibrosis, and hyperextension of the PIP joints describes a different deformity altogether.

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