What is Dupuytren’s contracture disease?
Dupuytren’s contracture (also called Dupuytren’s disease) is an abnormal thickening of fascia, a layer of tissue under the skin, in the palm of your hand at the base of your fingers. This thickened area may develop into a hard lump or thick band. As time progresses, Dupuytren disease can cause one or more fingers to contract, or pull sideways in toward your palm. Most commonly affected are the ring and little finger and in many cases it affects both hands. In very rare cases, the feet may also be affected.
What causes Dupuytren disease is unknown and in particular, it is unclear as to what causes it to worsen with some people and not others. Known as the most common inherited connective tissue disorder, approximately 4% of the general population are affected by Dupuytren disease. Patient qualities that may increase the risk of developing the disease include:
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Epilepsy
- Diabetes
- Family history
- Manual labor
- Hand trauma
What are the treatment Options?
Dupuytren’s contracture disease can have several phases where symptoms are active and are painful, limiting the ability to perform activities of daily life and then the disease can stabilize for extended periods of time leaving people with no pain.
There is no long-term cure for Dupuytren contracture disease, however there are treatment options that can correct the contractures. The type of treatment depends on the degree of deformity and the impact of the contracture on hand function. Options include:
- Collagenase injection
- Needle aponeuroromy
- Surgical fascienctomy
- Radiation therapy
How does radiation therapy work?
Low-dose radiotherapy can provide pain relief and prevent the progression of Dupuytren’s contracture disease. During the treatment, radiation is aimed towards the nodules to soften and shrink the lumps and prevent the formation of contractures. Radiotherapy reduces the growth of nodules and cords under the skin by altering the development and growth rate of fibroblasts, the cells which are responsible for creating the lumps in the connective tissue. Radiotherapy has an anti-inflammatory effect and reduces inflammation around the cords of the nodules reducing pain in the area.
Make Your Appointment For Dupuytren’s Contracture Treatment Today!
Please reach out to Palo Verde Cancer Specialists today to explore your treatment options. We understand the challenges you’re facing, and we’re here to provide compassionate support and guidance. With five convenient locations throughout the valley, we’re dedicated to helping you every step of the way.
