Abstract
This report concerns 12 cases of diabetes mellitus complicated by Dupuytren's contracture. The patients, 10 males and 2 females, ranged in age from 39 to 76 years. The duration of diabetes mellitus was from 8 to 23 ears.
Thickening and nodulation of the palmar fascia and flexor deformity were observedin all cases. Three patients had plantar thickness. The relationship between the clinical features of diabetes mellitus and Dupuytren's contracture is discussed. The diabetic control, in 10 cases who were treated with insulin, was poor.
Diabetic etinopathy was observed in 9 cases, and neurological abnormlities as judged from the ankle jerk and/or vibratory ensation in the lower limbs were also noted in all cases. In the case of patients under 60 years old, their ndition was complicated by cirrhosisof the liver and/or they were heavy drinkers or manual laborers. These factors seem to be contributory to the progression of Dupuytren's contracture. Patients who were treated by either partial asciotomy or massage with cream containing anti-inflammatory agents were slightly improved.
Thus, Dupuytren's contracture may be related to diabetic neuropathy and angiopathy, resulting from on uncontrolled diabetic state.
