Dupuytren's Disease: Exams And Tests

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Exams and Tests

Dupuytren's disease develops slowly and may be difficult to diagnose in its early stages. Most people do not see a health professional until the disease has progressed. A medical history and physical examination usually provide enough information for your health professional to determine whether you have Dupuytren's disease.

Questions about your medical history for Dupuytren's disease will usually include:

• Whether any close family members have been diagnosed with Dupuytren's disease or have had any similar symptoms.
• Your ethnic background.
• The symptoms and signs you've experienced and for how long.
• Whether you've noticed similar symptoms on the soles of the feet.
• Whether you've experienced any pain in your hand.
• Whether you have a history of smoking or alcoholism.
• Whether you have other medical conditions, such as diabetes, or if you are being treated for epilepsy.

A physical examination for Dupuytren's disease will usually include:

• Moving your hand and wrist in various positions.
• Moving your fingers to check for flexibility.
• Feeling the palm of your hand for a knot (nodule) or cord.
• Looking for any skin changes on your hand, such as dimpling or thickening on the palm.

Last updated:	March 31, 2008
Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, David Pichora, MD, FRCSC - Orthopedic Surgery
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC