IntroductionDupuytren's disease, also known as Dupuytren's contractures, palmar fasciitis, Viking's disease, or palmar fibromatosis, is a hand deformity that usually develops slowly, usually over years . This disease is caused by thickening and contraction of the palmar fascia. As the disease progresses, the nodules progress to form longitudinal bands called cords on the palmar fascia and the finger gradually loses extension, with contractures causing one or more fingers to flex at the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and proximal interphalangeal joints ( PIP). or both joints. The cause of Dupuytren's contracture is unknown, although important factors include genetics, ethnicity, sex, and age, and may include some environmental factors and other diseases. It is an autosomal dominant genetic disease and almost always involves people of Northern European origin. Dupuytren's contracture most commonly affects the ring and little fingers. The disease most commonly affects men over the age of 40. It also appears to affect other people with epilepsy, diabetes, lung disease or alcoholism, although the link between these various diseases is not fully understood. The flexor tendons are not involved, although it may appear that way in advanced contractions. Trauma can accelerate and in some cases even start the process. Epidemiology In affected patients up to 68% of their sons will develop the disease. Dupuytren's disease is relatively common in the United States with a prevalence of 4%, reflecting heavy immigration from Northern Europe. Outside the United States the disease is even more common. In Northern Europe the prevalence varies from 4 to 39%. In Norwegian populations 30% of males older than... middle of paper...... can alleviate some disabilities but cannot completely alleviate all symptoms. Additionally, intensive rehabilitation with an occupational therapist is often required following treatment to achieve optimal benefit and symptom relief. Mayo Clinic staff. "Dupuytren's contracture." Mayo Clinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, October 24, 2012. Web. December 14, 2013. Snider, Robert K. “Dupuytren's Disease.” Essentials of musculoskeletal care. Rosemont, IL: American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, 1997. 198-99. PrintDr. Aggarwal, Rohit and Dr. Philip E. Blazar. "Dupuytren's contracture." Updated. Wolters Kluwer Health, December 5, 2013. Web. December 14, 2013.Dr. Matteo, Stephanie Danielle. "Dupuytren's contracture". Dupuytren's contracture. WebMD, April 19, 2013. Web. December 14. 2013.