Chapter 02
What causes Dupuytren’s disease?
The exact cause of Dupuytren’s disease is unknown. In particular, it is unclear as to what causes it to worsen in some people and not others. Dupuytren’s disease is a common condition (~4% of the general population), predominantly affecting Anglo-Saxon races, especially over 65 years, and is more common in men than women. It is also the most common inherited connective tissue disorder.1,2
Risk factors include:2
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Epilepsy
- Diabetes
- Family history
- Manual labour
- Hand trauma
The disease can have active phases where symptoms worsen rapidly, and less active phases where disease stabilises for extended periods of time.
The condition is not usually painful, although periods of pain or discomfort can occur when the disease is ‘active’. The condition is also not life threatening but can be frustrating when limiting the ability to perform activities of daily living.1
Chapter 03
How is Dupuytren’s contracture treated?
Unfortunately there is no long-term cure.1,2 Treatment is often reserved for correction of contractures (when fingers are pulled into a bent position). The decision to treat may depend on a number of factors including the degree of deformity and the impact of the contracture on hand function. Your specialist will discuss the best options for you which can include:2
- Collagenase injection
- needle aponeuroromy – where the contracted tissue is divided so your finger can be stretched out again
- surgical fasciectomy
- radiation therapy may be helpful in preventing the progression of early stage Dupuytren's disease, thereby reducing the need for invasive procedures
Chapter 04
Radiation therapy for Dupuytren’s contracture
Radiation therapy may prevent the worsening and improve symptoms of Dupuytren’s.
During your treatment, radiation is directed to the palm of the hand with the goal of reducing overgrowth of myofibroblasts. These are the cells which produce scar tissue and are known to be overactive in Dupuytren's. Radition therapy may reduce current contractures and hopefully prevent the formation of new ones. In addition, radiation therapy can reduce inflammation and pain in cords and nodules, particularly in the 'active' phases of the disease.2,3
Radiation therapy is delivered using a machine called a linear accelerator. Having radiation therapy feels no different to having an X-ray
Radiation is delivered over 10 daily sessions, each of which takes around 15 minutes. The treatment is typically very tolerable. Some people will experience skin redness and peeling towards the end of the course and for a short period afterwards. These side effects resolve after 2-3 weeks. Long-term side effects may include reduction in palm sweating. A radiation-induced cancer is a very rare side effect of radiotherapy.
Make an enquiry
To find out more about radiation therapy for Dupuytren’s disease at GenesisCare, enquire today!
References
1. Australian Hand Therapy Association. What is Dupuytren’s contracture? Available at: https://www.ahta.com.au/news/what-dupuytren-s-contracture. Accessed on: 15/09/21.
2. Dutta A, et al. J Clin Orthop Trauma 2020; 11(4):590-596.
3. Kadhum M, et al. J Hand Surg. 2017; 42(7):689–692.
Disclaimer:
Care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of information on this webpage at the date of its publication, however, the information does not take the place of professional or medical advice. Please consult your doctor or treating clinician to determine whether any form of medical treatment or health service is appropriate for you.
Any procedure including treatments involving radiation carry risks, including skin irritation and associated pain. Before proceeding with a referral for treatment, patients should be advised to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. As in any medical procedure, patient experiences and outcomes will vary.
Read next
Condition
Keloid scars
A keloid scar is a benign, overgrown lump that can sometimes develop when a wound heals, or even after minor skin damage such as acne or ear piercing.
Condition
Ledderhose disease
The main cause of Ledderhose disease remains uncertain. However, there are several risk factors associated with developing this disease.
Condition
Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a very common repetitive strain condition affecting around 10% of the population at some point in their lives, more commonly women.