What is Dupuytren's contracture?

It's a fixed flexion deformity of the hand, where fingers bend towards the palm, and can't be straightened. It's due to the connective tissue in the hand getting all hard and non flexible.

Usually it affects the little finger, and the ring finger. If its really bad, it can be the middle finger too, but not the other fingers.

Who gets it?

There are basically two groups:

• Idiopathic -
• Alcoholics - the condition is more common in those with liver cirrhosis due to alcohol abuse. Which is the reason it is an important part of the gastrointestinal exam.