Comorbidity Analysis of Turkish Patients Operated for Dupuytren's Contracture in a University Hospital

Abstract

Background: Dupuytren's contracture (DC) is characterized by progressive fibroplasia of the palmar fascia resulting in significant impairment of hand function. Genetic factors and environmental factors are suspected in the etiology. Although the disease has a benign character, its formation and course follow a tumoral pattern. Several studies show that cancer-related mortality is higher in people with DC. Besides, various risk factors such as diabetes, smoking, and heavy handwork as triggers for DC led us to analyze the epidemiologic characteristics of our patients and search for the concomitance of chronic diseases and cancer. Methods: Seventy patients were operated for DC between 2009 and 2019. Information on occupation, dominant hand, diseased hand, family history, additional comorbidities, cancer, smoking, and drinking habits was sought. Results: A significant number of the patients were manual laborers. Most of the patients were active smokers at the time of the surgery. Dominant hand was predominantly right hand and the disease was mostly observed in the right hand but it was not significant (P > 0.05). Diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD) were the most common accompanying diseases. After surgery for DC, seven patients were diagnosed with cancer. Conclusions: This is the first Turkish study to show the relationship between DC and several comorbidities. Male gender and medium-heavy handwork were associated with DC. Although it was not statistically significant, the dominant hand was more affected by DC. Diabetes, CVD, smoking, and alcohol were significant comorbidities in our patients. The association between DC and cancer was remarkable.