Eighteen years follow-up study of the clinical manifestations and progression of Dupuytren's disease

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the clinical manifestations and progression of Dupuytren's disease.

Methods: In 1981-82 a total of 1297 men were examined for Dupuytren's disease, and of these 19.2% had the disease. In 1999 those with signs of the disease in 1981-82 were invited for a follow-up study. As controls symptom free individuals from the study in 1981-82 were invited.

Results: A total of 53 individuals from the control group had developed Dupuytren's disease in 1999. Men with palmar nodules/fibrous cord in 1981-82 were more likely to develop contracted fingers than those without Dupuytren's disease. Patients with young age at disease onset more often required operations than those with later onset. Of the men who had been operated 70% still had finger contractures in 1999.

Conclusion: The incidence of Dupuytren's disease is high in elderly men. Dupuytren's disease is progressive in nature and most operated patients have recurrent finger contractures.