A 50-year-old man comes to the office for evaluation of a nodule in his palm just proximal to the third metacarpophalangeal joint. It has grown larger since it first appeared several months ago and he now has mild flexion of the finger, which he is unable to straighten. The patient reports that his mother had similar problems with her fingers. Examination of the affected hand is shown in the exhibit. Which of the following pathologic processes is most likely involved in this patient's condition?

Question

A 50-year-old man comes to the office for evaluation of a nodule in his palm just proximal to the third metacarpophalangeal joint.  It has grown larger since it first appeared several months ago and he now has mild flexion of the finger, which he is unable to straighten.  The patient reports that his mother had similar problems with her fingers.  Examination of the affected hand is shown in the exhibit.  Which of the following pathologic processes is most likely involved in this patient's condition?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: Dupuytren contracture is caused by progressive fibrosis of the superficial palmar fascia due to excessive fibroblast proliferation.  Pathognomonic fibrotic nodules and cords form along the flexor tendons, limiting extension of the affected digits.

A 50-Year-Old Man Comes to the Office for Evaluation of a Nodule