Arthritis Health Center

Dupuytren's disease develops slowly and may be hard to diagnose in its early stages. Most people do not see a doctor until the disease has progressed. A medical history and physical exam usually provide enough information for your doctor 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 your 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 exam 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.