Genetic and environmental influences in Dupuytren's disease: a study of 30,330 Danish twin pairs

Anti-TNF (adalimumab) injection for the treatment of pain-predominant early-stage frozen shoulder: the Anti-Freaze-Feasibility randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

The Anti-Freaze-F (AFF) trial assessed the feasibility of conducting a definitive trial to determine whether intra-articular injection of adalimumab can reduce pain and improve function in people with pain-predominant early-stage frozen shoulder.

DESIGN

Multicentre, randomised feasibility trial, with embedded qualitative study.

SETTING

Four UK National Health Service (NHS) musculoskeletal and related physiotherapy services.

PARTICIPANTS

Adults ≥18 years with new episode of shoulder pain attributable to early-stage frozen shoulder.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were randomised (centralised computer generated 1:1 allocation) to either ultrasound-guided intra-articular injection of: (1) adalimumab (160 mg) or (2) placebo (saline (0.9% sodium chloride)). Participants and outcome assessors were blinded to treatment allocation. Second injection of allocated treatment (adalimumab 80 mg) or equivalent placebo was administered 2-3 weeks later. PRIMARY FEASIBILITY OBJECTIVES: (1) Ability to screen and identify participants; (2) willingness of eligible participants to consent and be randomised; (3) practicalities of delivering the intervention; (4) SD of the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) score and attrition rate at 3 months.

RESULTS

Between 31 May 2022 and 7 February 2023, 156 patients were screened of whom 39 (25%) were eligible. The main reasons for ineligibility were other shoulder disorder (38.5%; n=45/117) or no longer in pain-predominant frozen shoulder (33.3%; n=39/117). Of the 39 eligible patients, nine (23.1%) consented to be randomised (adalimumab n=4; placebo n=5). The main reason patients declined was because they preferred receiving steroid injection (n=13). All participants received treatment as allocated. The mean time from randomisation to first injection was 12.3 (adalimumab) and 7.2 days (placebo). Completion rates for patient-reported and clinician-assessed outcomes were 100%.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that current NHS musculoskeletal physiotherapy settings yielded only small numbers of participants, too few to make a trial viable. This was because many patients had passed the early stage of frozen shoulder or had already formulated a preference for treatment.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN 27075727, EudraCT 2021-03509-23, ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05299242 (REC 21/NE/0214).

Polygenic Risk Associations with Clinical Characteristics and Recurrence of Dupuytren Disease

BACKGROUND

Dupuytren disease (DD) is a common complex trait, with varying severity and incompletely understood cause. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified risk loci. In this article, we examine whether genetic risk profiles of DD in patients are associated with clinical variation and disease severity and with patient genetic risk profiles of genetically correlated traits, including body mass index (BMI), triglycerides, high-density lipoproteins, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and endophenotypes fasting glucose and glycated hemoglobin.

METHODS

The authors used a well-characterized cohort of 1461 DD patients with available phenotypic and genetic data. Phenotype data include age at onset, recurrence, and family history of disease. Polygenic risk scores (PRSs) of DD, BMI, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein, type 2 diabetes, fasting glucose, and hemoglobin A1c using various significance thresholds were calculated with PRSice using the most recent GWAS summary statistics. Control data from LifeLines were used to determine P value cutoffs for PRS generation explaining most variance.

RESULTS

The PRS for DD was significantly associated with a positive family history for DD, age at onset, disease onset before the age of 50, and recurrence. We also found a significant negative correlation between the PRSs for DD and BMI.

CONCLUSIONS

Although GWAS studies of DD are designed to identify genetic risk factors distinguishing case/control status, we show that the genetic risk profile for DD also explains part of its clinical variation and disease severity. The PRS may therefore aid in accurate prognostication, choosing initial treatment and in personalized medicine in the future.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Risk, III.

Surgery, Needle Fasciotomy, or Collagenase Injection for Dupuytren Contracture : A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Surgery, needle fasciotomy, and collagenase injection are used to treat Dupuytren contracture. The treatment decision requires balancing initial morbidity and costs of surgery against its potential long-term benefits over needle fasciotomy and collagenase.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effectiveness of surgery, needle fasciotomy, and collagenase injection at 3 months and 2 years (secondary time points of the trial).

DESIGN

A multicenter, randomized, outcome assessor-blinded, superiority trial. (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03192020).

SETTING

6 public hospitals in Finland.

PARTICIPANTS

302 persons with treatment-naive Dupuytren contracture (contracture angle <135°).

INTERVENTION

Surgery (n = 101), needle fasciotomy (n = 101), or collagenase (n = 100).

MEASUREMENTS

The primary outcome was the success rate, defined as greater than 50% contracture release and patients reaching the patient acceptable symptom state. Secondary outcomes included hand function, pain, quality of life, patient satisfaction, residual contracture angle, finger flexion, risk for retreatment, and serious adverse events.

RESULTS

A total of 292 (97%) and 284 (94%) participants completed the 3-month and 2-year follow-ups. Success rates were similar at 3 months: 71% (95% CI, 62% to 80%) for surgery, 73% (CI, 64% to 82%) for needle fasciotomy, and 73% (CI, 64% to 82%) for collagenase. At 2 years, surgery had superior success rates compared with both needle fasciotomy (78% vs. 50%; adjusted risk difference [aRD], 0.30 [CI, 0.17 to 0.43]) and collagenase (78% vs. 65%; aRD, 0.13 [CI, 0.01 to 0.26]). Secondary analyses paralleled with the primary analysis.

LIMITATION

Participants were not blinded.

CONCLUSION

Initial outcomes are similar between the treatments, but at 2 years success rates were maintained in the surgery group but were lower with both needle fasciotomy and collagenase despite retreatments.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE

Research Council of Finland.

Modifiable Risk Factors for Prevention in Dupuytren Disease: A UK Biobank Case-Control Study

BACKGROUND

Dupuytren disease is associated with significant comorbidity and mortality, and it has no existing prevention strategies. It is unclear which modifiable risk factors are most amenable for prevention. This study aimed to determine the strength of modifiable risk factors for Dupuytren disease, and to investigate associations with other diseases.

METHODS

Using UK Biobank data, this case-control study analyzed the association between phenotypic variables and Dupuytren disease through multivariable logistic regression. Exposures assessed were age, sex, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, Townsend deprivation index, smoking status, alcohol intake, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cancer, liver disease, respiratory disease, rheumatoid arthritis, epilepsy, psoriasis, and gout.

RESULTS

There were 4148 cases and 397,425 controls. Male sex (OR, 3.23; 95% CI, 2.90 to 3.60; P = 1.07 × 10 -100 ), increasing age (OR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.07 to 1.08; P = 6.78 × 10 -167 ), material deprivation (OR, 1.01; 95% CI, 1.00 to 1.02; P = 0.0305), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (OR, 1.76; 95% CI, 1.58 to 1.96; P = 3.35 × 10 -24 ), smoking exposure, and alcohol intake were all associated with increased odds of Dupuytren disease. With increasing obesity class, there was approximately 25% decreased odds (OR, 0.774; 95% CI, 0.734 to 0.816; P = 4.71 × 10 -21 ). Diabetes with microvascular or end-organ complications was associated with more than 2.5 times increased odds of Dupuytren disease (OR, 2.59; 95% CI, 1.92 to 3.44; P = 1.92 × 10 -10 ). Within this group, increasing hemoglobin A1c values by 10 mmol/mol, or 0.9%, increased the odds by 31% (OR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.13 to 1.51; P = 2.19 × 10 -4 ).

CONCLUSION

Diabetes and poor glycemic control are major risk factors for Dupuytren disease, which present an opportunity for prevention.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Risk, III.

A genome-wide association meta-analysis implicates Hedgehog and Notch signaling in Dupuytren's disease

Dupuytren's disease (DD) is a highly heritable fibrotic disorder of the hand with incompletely understood etiology. A number of genetic loci, including Wnt signaling members, have been previously identified. Our overall aim was to identify novel genetic loci, to prioritize genes within the loci for functional studies, and to assess genetic correlation with associated disorders. We performed a meta-analysis of six DD genome-wide association studies from three European countries and extensive bioinformatic follow-up analyses. Leveraging 11,320 cases and 47,023 controls, we identified 85 genome-wide significant single nucleotide polymorphisms in 56 loci, of which 11 were novel, explaining 13.3-38.1% of disease variance. Gene prioritization implicated the Hedgehog and Notch signaling pathways. We also identified a significant genetic correlation with frozen shoulder. The pathways identified highlight the potential for new therapeutic targets and provide a basis for additional mechanistic studies for a common disorder that can severely impact hand function.

Dupuytren's contracture-associated SNPs increase SFRP4 expression in non-immune cells including fibroblasts to enhance inflammation development

Dupuytren's contracture (DC) is an inflammatory fibrosis characterized by fibroproliferative disorders of the palmar aponeurosis, for which there is no effective treatment. Although several genome-wide association studies have identified risk alleles associated with DC, the functional linkage between these alleles and the pathogenesis remains elusive. We here focused on two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with DC, rs16879765 and rs17171229, in secreted frizzled related protein 4 (SFRP4). We investigated the association of SRFP4 with the IL-6 amplifier, which amplifies the production of IL-6, growth factors and chemokines in non-immune cells and aggravates inflammatory diseases via NF-κB enhancement. Knockdown of SFRP4 suppressed activation of the IL-6 amplifier in vitro and in vivo, whereas the overexpression of SFRP4 induced the activation of NF-κB-mediated transcription activity. Mechanistically, SFRP4 induced NF-κB activation by directly binding to molecules of the ubiquitination SFC complex, such as IkBα and βTrCP, followed by IkBα degradation. Furthermore, SFRP4 expression was significantly increased in fibroblasts derived from DC patients bearing the risk alleles. Consistently, fibroblasts with the risk alleles enhanced activation of the IL-6 amplifier. These findings indicate that the IL-6 amplifier is involved in the pathogenesis of DC, particularly in patients harboring the SFRP4 risk alleles. Therefore, SFRP4 is a potential therapeutic target for various inflammatory diseases and disorders, including DC.

Major Genetic Risk Factors for Dupuytren's Disease Are Inherited From Neandertals

Dupuytren's disease is characterized by fingers becoming permanently bent in a flexed position. Whereas people of African ancestry are rarely afflicted by Dupuytren's disease, up to ∼30% of men over 60 years suffer from this condition in northern Europe. Here, we meta-analyze 3 biobanks comprising 7,871 cases and 645,880 controls and find 61 genome-wide significant variants associated with Dupuytren's disease. We show that 3 of the 61 loci harbor alleles of Neandertal origin, including the second and third most strongly associated ones (P = 6.4 × 10-132 and P = 9.2 × 10-69, respectively). For the most strongly associated Neandertal variant, we identify EPDR1 as the causal gene. Dupuytren's disease is an example of how admixture with Neandertals has shaped regional differences in disease prevalence.

Dupuytren Disease: Prevalence, Incidence, and Lifetime Risk of Surgical Intervention. A Population-Based Cohort Analysis

BACKGROUND

Health care burden attributable to Dupuytren disease (DD) is largely unknown. The authors determined (1) the prevalence and incidence of DD, (2) the incidence of first surgical intervention, and (3) the lifetime risk of surgical intervention in the United Kingdom National Healthcare Service.

METHODS

In this population-based dynamic cohort analysis, data of the Clinical Practice Research Datalink was linked to Hospital Episode Statistics, to characterize the diagnosis and surgical treatment of DD. Secular trends of incidence of DD diagnosis and first surgical treatment were calculated for 2000 to 2013. A multistate Markov model was designed to estimate the lifetime risk of first surgical intervention.

RESULTS

A total of 10,553,454 subjects were included in the analyses, 5,502,879 (52%) of whom were women. Of these, 38,707 DD patients were identified. Point prevalence in 2013 was 0.67% (99% CI, 0.66 to 0.68). The incidence of DD almost doubled from 0.30 (99% CI, 0.28 to 0.33) per 1000 person-years in 2000, to 0.59 (99% CI, 0.56 to 0.62) per 1000 person-years in 2013. The incidence of first surgical intervention similarly increased from 0.29 (99% CI, 0.23 to 0.37) to 0.88 (99% CI, 0.77 to 1.00) in the same period. A man or woman newly diagnosed with DD at age 65 has a lifetime risk of surgical intervention of 23% and 13%, respectively, showing only a very subtle decrease when diagnosed later in life.

CONCLUSIONS

DD is an important health condition in the older population, because prevalence and incidence rates have almost doubled in the past decade. Estimated lifetime risk of surgical treatment is relatively low, but almost twice in men compared with women.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Risk, III.

Dupuytren's disease: a localised and accessible human fibrotic disorder

We review the biology of Dupuytren's disease (DD), a common localised fibrotic disorder of the hand. The disease develops through a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors, and epigenetic signalling. The early-stage disease nodules comprise a complex milieu of stromal and immune cells which interact to promote disease development. Recently, inhibition of tumour necrosis factor (TNF) locally resulted in softening and a decrease in nodule size, potentially controlling disease progression. Unlike fibrotic disorders of the visceral organs, the easy access to tissue in DD patients enables dissection of the cellular landscape and molecular signalling pathways. In addition, the study of DD may have wider benefits in enhancing our understanding of less-accessible fibrotic tissues.

Treatments for early-stage Dupuytren's disease: an evidence-based approach

Current treatments for Dupuytren's disease are limited to late-stage disease when patients have developed flexion contractures and have impaired hand function. They all have limitations, including the risk of recurrence and complications. The use of treatments for early-stage disease, such as intralesional steroid injections or radiotherapy which lack a clear biological basis or evidence of effectiveness based robust randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled trials, highlights the desire of patients to access treatments before they develop significant flexion contractures. A detailed understanding of the cellular landscape and molecular signalling in nodules of early-stage disease would permit the identification of potential therapeutic targets. This approach led to the identification of tumour necrosis factor (TNF) as a target. A phase 2a clinical trial identified 40 mg in 0.4 mL adalimumab as the most efficacious dose and a subsequent randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled phase 2b trial showed that four intranodular injections at 3-month intervals resulted in decrease in nodule hardness and size on ultrasound scan at 12 months, and both parameters continued to decrease further at 18 months, 9 months after the final injection. This type of approach provides clinicians with a robust evidence base for advising their patients.

Effect of nanoparticle-mediated delivery of SFRP4 siRNA for treating Dupuytren disease

Dupuytren disease (DD) is a progressive fibrous proliferative disease. It invades the palmar aponeurosis and extends to the finger fascia, eventually leading to flexion contracture of the metacarpophalangeal or interphalangeal joint. At present, surgical resection and the local injection of collagenase are the main methods for the treatment of DD, but postoperative complications and high recurrence rates often occur. Bioinformatics analysis showed that the increased expression of SFRP4 protein was closely related to the incidence of DD. Persistent and effective inhibition of SFRP4 expression may be a promising treatment for DD. We prepared SFRP4 siRNA/nanoparticle complexes (si-SFRP4) and negative siRNA/nanoparticle complexes (NC) and applied them in vitro and in vivo. Flow cytometry analysis showed that si-SFRP4 could be successfully transfected into DD cells. MTT and EdU staining assays showed that the OD values and percentage of EdU-positive cells in the si-SFRP4 group were significantly lower than those in the NC group. Scratch tests showed that the wound healing rate of the si-SFRP4 group was lower than that of the NC group, and the difference was statistically significant. The expression of SFRP4 and α-SMA protein in the si-SFRP4 group significantly decreased in both DD cells and xenografts. Compared with the NC group, the xenograft quality of the si-SFRP4 group was significantly reduced. Masson's trichrome staining showed that the collagen and fibrous cells in the si-SFRP4 group were more uniform, slender, parallel and regular. The above experimental results suggest that the proliferation and metabolism of palmar aponeurosis cells and the quality of metacarpal fascia xenografts were both significantly decreased. We speculated that nanoparticle-mediated SFRP4 siRNA can be used as a potential new method for the treatment of DD.

Application of fibrin glue for hematoma prophylaxis in selective aponeurectomy in Dupuytren's disease

INTRODUCTION

Fibrin glue (FG) can be applied in several surgical procedures at wound closure to reduce postoperative complications such as hematoma formation and wound impairment. The purpose of this study is to assess these preventive surgical benefits in Dupuytren's disease of the hand.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed a monocentric retrospective cohort study. All patients who underwent selective aponeurectomy for Dupuytren's disease between 2010 and 2020 were included. Patients were divided into two groups: either receiving or not receiving FG. The primary outcome variables were postoperative bleeding, wound healing impairment, and further pooled postoperative complications.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirty-three patients were included in the analysis of which 108 patients were treated with FG, while 24 did not. There was no statistically significant difference in outcomes regarding postoperative bleeding, infections, or revision surgery. However, in the group receiving FG, there was a tendency toward higher wound healing impairment (13%, p = 0.07). The FG group showed a significantly higher pooled complication rate (18.5%, p < 0.02). Complication in general increased with higher Tubiana classification and number of resected cords. Smoking tripled the risk of impaired wound, while cardiovascular comorbidities increased postoperative bleeding by the factor of 11.

CONCLUSION

FG did not show a preventive outcome regarding bleeding. The FG group had a tendency for a higher wound healing incidence. Smoking and arterial hypertension correlated with a higher postoperative complication rate. The overall incidence of complications was higher in the FG group. The quality of the surgical intervention as well as accurate hemostasis cannot be corrected by the application of FG.

Verteporfin ameliorates fibrotic aspects of Dupuytren's disease nodular fibroblasts irrespective the activation state of the cells

Dupuytren’s disease is a chronic, progressive fibroproliferative condition of the hand fascia which results in digital contraction. So far, treatments do not directly interfere with the (myo)fibroblasts that are responsible for the formation of the collagen-rich cords and its contraction. Here we investigated whether verteporfin (VP) is able to inhibit the activation and subsequent differentiation of DD nodular fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. Fibroblasts were isolated from nodules of 7 Dupuytren patients. Cells are treated (1) for 48 h with 5 ng/ml transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) followed by 48 h with/without 250 nM VP in the absence of TGF-β1, or treated (2) for 48 h with TGF-β1 followed by 48 h with/without VP in the presence of TGF-β1. mRNA levels were measured by means of Real-Time PCR, and proteins were visualized by means of Western blotting and/or immunofluorescence. Quantitative data were statistically analyzed with GraphPad Prism using the paired t-test. We found that fibroblasts activated for 48 h with TGF-β1 show a decrease in mRNA levels of COL1A1, COL3A1, COL4A1, PLOD2, FN1EDA, CCN2 and SERPINE1 when exposed for another 48 h with VP, whereas no decrease is seen for ACTA2, YAP1, SMAD2 and SMAD3 mRNA levels. Cells exposed for an additional 48 h with TGF-β1, but now in the presence of VP, are not further activated anymore, whereas in the absence of VP the cells continue to differentiate into myofibroblasts. Collagen type I, fibronectin-extra domain A, α-smooth muscle actin, YAP1, Smad2 and Smad3 protein levels were attenuated by both VP treatments. We conclude that VP has strong anti-fibrotic properties: it is able to halt the differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, and is also able to reverse the activation status of fibroblasts. The decreased protein levels of YAP1, Smad2 and Smad3 in the presence of VP explain in part the strong anti-fibrotic properties of VP. Verteporfin is clinically used as a photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy to eliminate abnormal blood vessels in the eye to attenuate macular degeneration. The antifibrotic properties of VP do not rely on photo-activation, as we used the molecule in its non-photoinduced state.

Anti-tumour necrosis factor therapy for early-stage Dupuytren's disease (RIDD): a phase 2b, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Background

Dupuytren’s disease is a common fibrotic condition that causes the fingers to flex irreversibly into the palm. Treatments for late-stage disease all have limitations, and there is no approved treatment for early-stage disease. We identified tumour necrosis factor as a therapeutic target in Dupuytren’s disease, and in a dose ranging trial found 40 mg adalimumab in 0·4 mL to be most efficacious. Here we aimed to assess the effects of intranodular injection of adalimumab in early-stage disease.

Methods

In this phase 2b, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial adults with early-stage Dupuytren’s disease and an established clinically distinct nodule with a clear history of progression in the preceding 6 months were recruited from two clinical centres in the UK and were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive four injections of adalimumab or saline every 3 months. Participants and assessors were masked. The primary outcome was nodule hardness measured with a durometer at 12 months. Data were analysed by linear mixed effects regression models in the intention-to-treat population with multiple imputation for missing primary outcome data. The trial is registered at the ISRCTN registry, ISRCTN 27786905 and is complete.

Findings

Between Feb 17, 2017, and Jan 11, 2019, 284 participants were screened in the UK and 140 were enrolled. 47 (34%) participants were female and 93 (66%) were male. Mean age of participants was 59·7 years (SD 10·0). Primary outcome data were available from 113 participants. Nodule hardness was lower (−4·6 AU [95% CI −7·1 to −2·2], p=0·0002) in the adalimumab compared with the saline group at 12 months. There were no related serious adverse events; the most common adverse events were minor injection site reactions.

Interpretation

Intranodular injections of adalimumab in participants with early-stage Dupuytren’s disease resulted in softening and reduction in size of the nodules. Longer follow-up would be required to assess the effect of tumour necrosis factor inhibition on disease progression, extension deficit and hand function.

Risk Factors for Dupuytren's Contracture: A Case-Control Study

Objective

To study the risk factors of Dupuytren's contracture (DC) and to provide a reference for the clinical prevention and treatment of DC.

Methods

The clinical data of 21 DC patients treated with surgery in Qilu Hospital of Shandong University (Qingdao) from March 2014 to January 2022 were collected. During the same period, 31 subjects who were admitted to the hospital for treatment of finger numbness, difficulty in movement, and other reasons were selected as the control group, and the clinical data of the control group were collected. A case-control study was used to analyze the risk factors for DC. The receiver operating curve (ROC) was used to analyze the efficacy of blood biochemical indexes and coagulation-related indexes in predicting the occurrence of DC.

Results

Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that male and diabetes were independent risk factors for the occurrence of DC (HR = 19.69, 95%CI: 3.12-124.19, P = 0.002; HR = 7.61, 95%CI: 1.25-46.47, P = 0.03). The results of the ROC analysis showed that the area under the curve (AUC) for the DC predicted by cystatin C was 0.7565 (95%CI: 0.6203-0.8928, P = 0.0018), and the AUC for the DC predicted by blood chloride level was 0.8121 (95%CI: 0.6880-0.9362, P = 0.0002), the AUC for the DC predicted by fibrinogen was 0.7796 (95%CI: 0.6439-0.9152, P = 0.0007), the AUC for the DC predicted by D-dimer level was 0.8740 (95%CI: 0.7812-0.9669, P < 0.0001), and the AUC for the DC predicted by thrombin time was 0.7803 (95%CI: 0.6411-0.9196, P = 0.0007). The AUC for the DC predicted by the combined detection of cystatin C, blood chloride, fibrinogen, D-dimer, and thrombin time was 0.9441 (95%CI: 0.8926-0.9957, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Male and diabetes are independent risk factors for the occurrence of DC. Combined detection of cystatin C, blood chloride, fibrinogen, D-dimer, and thrombin time has a certain value in predicting the occurrence of DC.

The Deep Fascia and its Role in Chronic Pain & Pathological Conditions: A Review

INTRODUCTION

The deep fascia is a three-dimensional continuum of connective tissue surrounding the bones, muscles, nerves and blood vessels throughout our body. Its importance in chronically debilitating conditions has recently been brought to light. This work investigates changes in these tissues in pathological settings.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A state-of-the-art review was conducted in PubMed and Google Scholar following a two-stage process. A first search was performed to identify main types of deep fasciae. A second search was performed to identify studies considering a deep fascia, common pathologies of this deep fascia and the associated alterations in tissue anatomy.

RESULTS

We find that five main deep fasciae pathologies are chronic low back pain, chronic neck pain, Dupuytren's disease, plantar fasciitis and iliotibial band syndrome. The corresponding fasciae are respectively the thoracolumbar fascia, the cervical fascia, the palmar fascia, the plantar fascia and the iliotibial tract. Pathological fascia is characterized by increased tissue stiffness along with alterations in myofibroblast activity and the extra-cellular matrix, both in terms of collagen and Matrix Metalloproteases (MMP) levels. Innervation changes such as increased density and sensitization of nociceptive nerve fibers are observed. Additionally, markers of inflammation such as pro-inflammatory cytokines and immune cells are documented. Pain originating from the deep fascia likely results from a combination of increased nerve density, sensitization and chronic nociceptive stimulation, whether physical or chemical.

CONCLUSIONS

The pathological fascia is characterized by changes in innervation, immunology and tissue contracture. Further investigation is required to best benefit both research opportunities and patient care.

Dupuytren's Disease–Etiology and Treatment

BACKGROUND

The worldwide prevalence of Dupuytren's disease (DD) is 8%. DD is a chronic disease for which there is no cure. Various treatments are available.

METHODS

This review is based on pertinent publications retrieved by a selective search in PubMed and Embase.

RESULTS

Genetic factors account for 80% of the factors involved in causing this disease. Diabetes mellitus, hepatic diseases, epilepsy, and chronic occupational use of vibrating tools are also associated with it. Limited fasciectomy is the most common treatment and is considered the reference standard. Possible complications include persistent numbness in areas where the skin has been elevated, cold sensitivity, and stiffness, with a cumulative risk of 3.6 -39.1% for all complications taken together. The recurrence rate at 5 years is 12-73%. Percutaneous needle fasciotomy is the least invasive method, with more rapid recovery and a lower complication rate than with limited fasciectomy. 85% of patients have a recurrence after an average of 2.3 years. Radiotherapy can be given before contractures arise in patients with high familial risk, or postoperatively in selected patients with a very high individual risk of recurrence.

CONCLUSION

Although DD is not curable, good treatments are available. Recurrences reflect the pathophysiology of the disease and should not be considered complications of treatment. When counseling patients about the available treatment options, particularly the modalities and timing of surgery, the physician must take the patient's degree of suffering into account. Nowadays, fast recovery from surgery and less postoperative pain are a priority for many patients. Different surgical methods can be used in combination. It remains difficult to predict the natural course and the time to postoperative recurrence in individual patients; these matters should be addressed in future studies.

Dupuytren's Disease: An Outcomes-Focused Update

Dupuytren's disease (DD) remains a common fibroproliferative condition with significant sequelae and impact on patient's lives. The etiology of DD is poorly understood, and genetic predisposition is thought to be a strongly associated factor. Despite remarkable strides in improving our molecular understanding of DD, clinical treatment options have not yet overcome the frequently encountered challenge of recurrence. Recurrence rates continue to shape the prognosis of this fibrotic condition. In this outcomes-focused article, the various treatment modalities are reviewed. This further emphasizes the importance of patient education and providing them with the information to make informed decisions about their treatment.

Metabolic factors and the risk of Dupuytren's disease: data from 30,000 individuals followed for over 20 years

Dupuytren’s disease (DD) is a fibroproliferative disorder affecting the palmar fascia of the hand. Risk factors include diabetes mellitus (DM), whereas a high body mass index (BMI) is associated with a lower prevalence of DD. The aim of this study was to further elucidate risk and protective factors for the development of DD using longitudinal population-based data from the Malmö Diet and Cancer Study (MDCS). During 1991–1996, the inhabitants aged 46–73 years in the city of Malmö, Sweden were invited to participate in the population-based MDCS (41% participation rate). Data on incident DD were retrieved from Swedish national registers. Associations between DM, alcohol consumption, BMI, and serum apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) at baseline were analysed in multivariable Cox regression models adjusted for known confounders. Among 30,446 recruited participants, 347 men and 194 women were diagnosed with DD during a median follow-up time of 23 years. DM (men HR 2.23; 95% CI 1.50–3.30, women HR 2.69; 95% CI 1.48–4.90) and alcohol consumption (men HR 2.46; 95% CI 1.85–3.27, women HR 3.56; 95% CI 1.95–6.50) were independently associated with incident DD in the Cox regression models. Furthermore, inverse associations with incident DD were found for obesity among men, and ApoB/ApoA1 ratio among both sexes. DM and excess alcohol consumption constituted major risk factors for the development of DD. Furthermore, an inverse association between obesity among men and DD, and also between ApoB/ApoA1 ratio and DD was found in both sexes.

The relationship between body mass index and the risk of development of Dupuytren's disease: a Mendelian randomization study

We performed Mendelian randomization analyses of body mass index and waist-hip ratio adjusted for body mass index in Dupuytren's disease using summary statistics from genome-wide association study meta-analyses. We found that adiposity is causally protective against Dupuytren's disease, with the inverse-variance weighted Mendelian randomization analysis estimating that a 1 standard deviation increase in body mass index (equivalent to 4.8 kg/m²) leads to 28% (95% confidence interval: 18-37%) lower relative odds of developing Dupuytren's disease, and a 1 standard deviation increase in waist-hip ratio adjusted for body mass index (equivalent to a waist-hip ratio of 0.09) leads to 26% (95% confidence interval: 6-42%) lower relative odds of developing Dupuytren's disease. We conclude from this study that regardless of the well-established negative health effects of obesity, the raised body mass index is associated with a lower risk of Dupuytren's disease and may be causally protective for the development of the disease.

Fibroproliferative disorders and diabetes: Understanding the pathophysiologic relationship between Peyronie's disease, Dupuytren disease and diabetes

Introduction

Fibrosis is characterized by dysregulation and accumulation of extracellular matrix. Peyronie's disease and Dupuytren disease are fibroproliferative disorders of the tunica albuginea of the penis and fascia of the hand, respectively. Chronic hyperglycaemia due to diabetes mellitus can also lead to tissue injury and fibrosis. A meta-analysis has shown a relationship between Dupuytren disease and diabetes (overall odds ratio, 3.1; 95% confidence interval, 2.7-3.5). This review explores commonalities in the pathogenesis of Peyronie's disease, Dupuytren disease and diabetes.

Methods

A search of the PubMed database was conducted using the search terms "diabetes" AND "Peyronie's disease"; and "diabetes" AND "Dupuytren."

Results

Genome-wide association and gene expression studies conducted with tissue from people with Peyronie's disease or Dupuytren disease identified signalling pathways associated with wingless-type mammary-tumour virus integration site signalling, extracellular matrix modulation and inflammation. Biochemical studies confirmed the importance of these pathways in the pathogenesis of fibrosis with Peyronie's disease and Dupuytren disease. Dysregulation of matrix metalloproteinase activity associated with extracellular matrix breakdown was implicated in fibroproliferative complications of diabetes and in the aetiology of Peyronie's disease and Dupuytren disease. A notable percentage of people with diabetes have comorbid Peyronie's disease and/or Dupuytren disease.

Conclusions

Studies have not been performed to identify fibroproliferative pathways that all 3 conditions might have in common, but data suggest that common pathways are involved in the fibroproliferative processes of Peyronie's disease, Dupuytren disease, and diabetes.

Genetic Aspects in Shoulder Disorders

The influence of genetic inheritance has been increasingly investigated in shoulder disorders, such as rotator cuff injury, instability and frozen shoulder. Although the initial findings are enlightening, it is necessary to progressively build a database of genetic markers to catalog genomic profiles that, later, may contribute for predicting the risk of the disease, as well as to the development of better diagnostic and treatment tools. The present article seeks to update what is evidence of genetic studies in the literature for these diseases, from polymorphism analyses, expression of candidate genes in tissues and broad genomic association studies (GWAS). However, it is necessary to point out that there is great difficulty in replicating and using the findings, mainly due to the lack of statistical power, the high rate of false-positive results and the large number of variables involved.

Nongenetic Factors Associated with Dupuytren's Disease: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Dupuytren's disease is a common complex disease caused by genetic and nongenetic factors. The role of many nongenetic risk factors is still unclear and debatable. This study aimed to systematically review the association between Dupuytren's disease and nongenetic risk factors.

METHODS

A search strategy was developed based on the Population, Exposure, Comparison, Outcomes and Study framework. A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses-compliant literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to November of 2018. Title and abstract and then full-text screening against eligibility criteria was performed independently by two reviewers, and consensus was achieved by a third reviewer. The Effective Public Health Practice Project and the Oxford Centre for Evidence Based Medicine tools were used to assess study quality and to evaluate the level of evidence of included studies, respectively.

RESULTS

Reviewers identified 4434 studies, of which 54 were included in the analysis. There was strong evidence for the association between Dupuytren's disease and advanced age, male sex, family history of Dupuytren's disease, and diabetes mellitus. Furthermore, heavy alcohol drinking, cigarette smoking, and manual work exposure showed a significant dose-response relationship. The quality of the included studies was mainly low or moderate, and most studies were level 3 or 4 on the Oxford Centre for Evidence Based Medicine scale.

CONCLUSIONS

The study results show a strong association between Dupuytren's disease and advanced age, male sex, family history of Dupuytren's disease, diabetes mellitus, heavy alcohol drinking, cigarette smoking, and manual work exposure. Further studies are required to explain the causal relationship of these associations.

Identifying collagen VI as a target of fibrotic diseases regulated by CREBBP/EP300

Fibrotic diseases remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality, yet there are few effective therapies. The underlying pathology of all fibrotic conditions is the activity of myofibroblasts. Using cells from freshly excised disease tissue from patients with Dupuytren's disease (DD), a localized fibrotic disorder of the palm, we sought to identify new therapeutic targets for fibrotic disease. We hypothesized that the persistent activity of myofibroblasts in fibrotic diseases might involve epigenetic modifications. Using a validated genetics-led target prioritization algorithm (Pi) of genome wide association studies (GWAS) data and a broad screen of epigenetic inhibitors, we found that the acetyltransferase CREBBP/EP300 is a major regulator of contractility and extracellular matrix production via control of H3K27 acetylation at the profibrotic genes, ACTA2 and COL1A1 Genomic analysis revealed that EP300 is highly enriched at enhancers associated with genes involved in multiple profibrotic pathways, and broad transcriptomic and proteomic profiling of CREBBP/EP300 inhibition by the chemical probe SGC-CBP30 identified collagen VI (Col VI) as a prominent downstream regulator of myofibroblast activity. Targeted Col VI knockdown results in significant decrease in profibrotic functions, including myofibroblast contractile force, extracellular matrix (ECM) production, chemotaxis, and wound healing. Further evidence for Col VI as a major determinant of fibrosis is its abundant expression within Dupuytren's nodules and also in the fibrotic foci of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Thus, Col VI may represent a tractable therapeutic target across a range of fibrotic disorders.

Dupuytren's Disease Predicts Increased All-Cause and Cancer-Specific Mortality: Analysis of a Large Cohort from the U.K. Clinical Practice Research Datalink

BACKGROUND

Dupuytren's disease is a common, chronic, fibroproliferative disease of the palmar fascia. The cause is unclear but includes genetic predisposition alongside environmental factors. Several studies have suggested an association between Dupuytren's disease and excess mortality. The authors aimed to evaluate this association in adult patients in the United Kingdom and identify the causes of mortality.

METHODS

The authors used a large primary care database (Clinical Practice Research Datalink) linked to the Office of National Statistics to identify patients with Dupuytren's disease between January 1, 1995, and December 31, 2013. Each patient was matched by age, sex, and general practitioner to five control patients without the disease. Cox regression models were used to study the association between Dupuytren's disease and all-cause and cause-specific mortality, adjusting for confounders.

RESULTS

A total of 41,965 Dupuytren's disease patients and 209,825 control patients were identified. The all-cause mortality rate was increased in both unadjusted (hazard ratio, 1.48; 99% CI, 1.29 to 1.70; p < 0.0001) and multivariable adjusted (hazard ratio, 1.43; 99% CI, 1.25 to 1.65; p < 0.0001) models in patients with Dupuytren's disease, 12 years after diagnosis. Excess mortality was secondary to a wide range of causes, including cancer (hazard ratio, 1.66; 99% CI, 1.27 to 2.17; p < 0.0001), an effect that persisted after adjustment for confounders.

CONCLUSIONS

There is excess mortality associated with Dupuytren's disease that can be partially explained through environmental factors. From time of diagnosis in primary care, there is a 12-year window of opportunity for intervention to reduce the impact of these factors. The authors observed an increased risk of cancer mortality independent of confounders, and hypothesize a shared genetic risk between Dupuytren's disease and cancer.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Risk, II.

Ethnic differences in prevalence of Dupuytren disease can partly be explained by known genetic risk variants

Dupuytren disease (DD), a fibroproliferative disorder of the palmar fascia that causes flexion contractures in the fingers, is prevalent in people of North-Western European descent and less so in other ethnicities. DD is a complex disorder, influenced by genetic risk variants. We aimed to study if the marked differences in prevalences in DD between ethnic (sub)groups could be explained by differences in allele frequencies of the 26 known genetic risk variants of DD. Therefore, genetic risk scores (GRS) composed of the 26 DD risk variants were calculated for the 26 populations from the 1000 Genomes database and correlated to observed DD prevalences from literature. For comparison, GRSs were generated for 10,000 sets of 26 random SNPs and also correlated to the observed DD prevalences to determine the significance of the observed correlation. To determine whether differences in allele frequencies between ethnicities were caused by natural selection, fixation indices (Fst) were calculated from the 26 SNPs and from the sets of 26 random SNPs for comparison. Observed prevalences could be determined from literature for 10 populations. Their correlation with the GRS composed of DD SNPs proved to be 0.60 (p = 0.0003). The Fsts between British and other populations were low for European, ad mixed American, and South-Asian populations, and moderate for East-Asians. African populations were significantly different from expected values determined from the random sets. In conclusion, the 26 known genetic risk variants associated with DD explain for a substantial part (R2 = 0.36) the differing DD prevalences observed between ethnicities.

Future Preventive Gene Therapy of Polygenic Diseases from a Population Genetics Perspective

With the accumulation of scientific knowledge of the genetic causes of common diseases and continuous advancement of gene-editing technologies, gene therapies to prevent polygenic diseases may soon become possible. This study endeavored to assess population genetics consequences of such therapies. Computer simulations were used to evaluate the heterogeneity in causal alleles for polygenic diseases that could exist among geographically distinct populations. The results show that although heterogeneity would not be easily detectable by epidemiological studies following population admixture, even significant heterogeneity would not impede the outcomes of preventive gene therapies. Preventive gene therapies designed to correct causal alleles to a naturally-occurring neutral state of nucleotides would lower the prevalence of polygenic early- to middle-age-onset diseases in proportion to the decreased population relative risk attributable to the edited alleles. The outcome would manifest differently for late-onset diseases, for which the therapies would result in a delayed disease onset and decreased lifetime risk; however, the lifetime risk would increase again with prolonging population life expectancy, which is a likely consequence of such therapies. If the preventive heritable gene therapies were to be applied on a large scale, the decreasing frequency of risk alleles in populations would reduce the disease risk or delay the age of onset, even with a fraction of the population receiving such therapies. With ongoing population admixture, all groups would benefit over generations.

Integrative analysis of Dupuytren's disease identifies novel risk locus and reveals a shared genetic etiology with BMI

Dupuytren's disease is a common inherited tissue‐specific fibrotic disorder, characterized by progressive and irreversible fibroblastic proliferation affecting the palmar fascia of the hand. Although genome‐wide association study (GWAS) have identified 24 genomic regions associated with Dupuytrens risk, the biological mechanisms driving signal at these regions remain elusive. We identify potential biological mechanisms for Dupuytren's disease by integrating the most recent, largest GWAS (3,871 cases and 4,686 controls) with eQTLs (47 tissue panels from five consortia, total n = 3,975) to perform a transcriptome‐wide association study. We identify 43 tissue‐specific gene associations with Dupuytren's risk, including one in a novel risk region. We also estimate the genome‐wide genetic correlation between Dupuytren's disease and 45 complex traits and find significant genetic correlations between Dupuytren's disease and body mass index (BMI), type II diabetes, triglycerides, and high‐density lipoprotein (HDL), suggesting a shared genetic etiology between these traits. We further examine local genetic correlation to identify 8 and 3 novel regions significantly correlated with BMI and HDL respectively. Our results are consistent with previous epidemiological findings showing that lower BMI increases risk for Dupuytren's disease. These 12 novel risk regions provide new insight into the biological mechanisms of Dupuytren's disease and serve as a starting point for functional validation.

A Weighted Genetic Risk Score Predicts Surgical Recurrence Independent of High-Risk Clinical Features in Dupuytren's Disease

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Background:

Dupuytren’s disease is a very common, highly heritable palmar fibromatosis. In a recent genome-wide association study, 26 single-nucleotide polymorphisms were found to be associated with development of Dupuytren’s disease. The authors generated a weighted genetic risk score based on the genotype at these single-nucleotide polymorphisms. In two independent cohorts, they tested the association among high weighted genetic risk score, clinical features that predict a high risk of recurrence, and recurrence after surgery.

Methods:

Clinical data were obtained from patient questionnaires and clinical records, with missing data accounted for by imputation. Genotyping was performed as part of the recent genome-wide association study. Logistic regression was performed to study the association among weighted genetic risk score, high-risk clinical features, and recurrence, with a weighted genetic risk score analyzed as a continuous variable, and also grouped into four categories.

Results:

Using univariable logistic regression, a high weighted genetic risk score was associated with the presence of all high-risk clinical features: early age of onset, bilateral disease, ectopic disease, and a positive family history (p ≤ 0.004). After multivariable logistic regression accounting for these factors, an increased weighted genetic risk score was still associated with the need for repeated Dupuytren’s disease surgery (p = 0.004).

Conclusions:

The authors’ results suggest that a weighted genetic risk score is useful in predicting the risk of disease recurrence, and may be used by surgeons to personalize prognostication. In the future, a weighted genetic risk score may be useful for determining the most appropriate initial surgical procedure in patients with Dupuytren’s disease.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Risk, III.

Investigating the effects of Pirfenidone on TGF-β1 stimulated non-SMAD signaling pathways in Dupuytren's disease -derived fibroblasts

BACKGROUND

Dupuytren's disease (DD) is a progressive, debilitating condition of the hand that can eventually cause contractures of the affected fingers. Transforming growth factor- β1 (TGF-β1) has been reported to play a key role in DD pathology. Increased expression of TGF-β1 has shown to be the main stimulator of myofibroblast activity and in DD contractures. Pirfenidone (PFD), a small active molecule possess the ability to inhibit TGF-β1-mediated action in various fibrotic disorders. Our recent published findings show that PFD reduced TGF-β1-mediated cellular functions implicated in DD through SMAD signaling pathways. In the present study, the effect of PFD on TGF-β1-mediated non-SMAD signaling pathways were investigated in both carpal tunnel (CT) - and DD-derived fibroblasts.

METHODS

Fibroblasts harvested from Dupuytren's disease (DD) and carpal tunnel (CT) tissues were cultured in the presence or absence of TGF-β1 (10 ng/ml) and/or PFD (800 μg/ml). Cell lysates were analyzed using Western blots. Equal amounts of proteins were loaded to determine the phosphorylation levels of phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K/AKT), extracellular regulated kinases (ERK1/2), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and Rho family related myosin light chain (MLC).

RESULTS

We show that the TGF-β1-induced phosphorylation of AKT was significantly decreased by the addition of PFD (800 μg/mL) in both CT- and DD-derived fibroblasts. Interestingly, there was no significant difference in the phosphorylation levels of both ERK and p38 on TGF-β1- induced cells in both CT-and DD-derived fibroblasts. But, PFD significantly decreased the TGF- β1-induced phosphorylation levels of ERK1/2 in both CT- and DD- cells. In contrast, PFD significantly decreased the basal and TGF- β1-induced phosphorylation levels of p38 in DD-derived fibroblasts. TGF- β1-induced phosphorylation levels of MLC was decreased by PFD in DD-derived fibroblasts.

CONCLUSIONS

These in-vitro results indicate for the first time that PFD has the potential to inhibit TGF-β1-induced non-SMAD signaling pathways in both CT- and DD-derived fibroblasts but pronounced statistically significant inhibition on all molecules was observed only in DD-derived fibroblasts. Our previous studies show that PFD can inhibit TGF-β1- induced SMAD signaling pathway proteins, namely p- SMAD2/SMAD3. These broad and complementary actions suggest PFD as a promising candidate to inhibit the TGF-β1- mediated molecular mechanisms leading to DD fibrosis.

Recent advances in the understanding of Dupuytren's disease

Dupuytren's disease (DD) is a common fibrotic disorder of the hand and can significantly impair hand function. Although the exact pathogenesis of this disorder remains to be elucidated, immunological, genetic and cellular factors likely interact. In this review, we summarise recent advances in the understanding of DD pathogenesis and look to the future for potential novel therapeutic targets. In addition, we discuss the therapeutic options in DD with a focus on the need for more rigorous evidence to allow a meaningful comparison of different treatment modalities.

Surgical fasciectomy versus collagenase injection in treating recurrent Dupuytren disease: study protocol of a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

There is no definitive cure for Dupuytren disease (DD), and recurrence of finger contractures after treatment is common. Surgical fasciectomy is considered the standard treatment method for recurrence, although associated with a high incidence of complications. Collagenase injection, a non-surgical treatment option, has been shown to be a safe and effective method; however, most studies regarding collagenase have involved first-time treatment. Collagenase efficacy in patients with recurrent DD beyond the immediate effect has not yet been determined. The aim of our study is to compare surgical fasciectomy and collagenase injection in treating recurrent DD.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The study is a single-centre randomised controlled trial. Inclusion criteria are recurrence of DD in one or more fingers after previous treatment with fasciectomy or collagenase injection, a passive extension deficit ≥30° in the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and/or proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, and a palpable cord causing the recurrent contracture. A total of 56 patients will be randomised to either surgical fasciectomy or collagenase injection. A hand therapist blinded to patients' group allocation will measure range of motion at baseline, 3 months, 12 months, 24 months and 60 months. The primary outcomes are the total active extension deficit (MCP plus PIP) at 3 months and the proportion of patients with contracture worsening ≥20° in the treated finger joint at 2 years compared with 3 months. The secondary outcomes include changes in total active motion, active and passive extension deficit from baseline up to 5 years, scores on patient-reported outcome measures, adverse events and costs of treatment.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval has been obtained from the Regional Ethical Review Board, Lund University, Sweden(2017/623). The trial will be conducted according to the Helsinki Declaration of 1975, revised in 2000. The results of the trial will be disseminated as published articles in peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT03406338; Pre-results.

Dupuytren's disease: where do we stand?

Dupuytren’s disease is a fibroproliferative disease that involves collagen deposition, leading to hand contractures that ultimately affect hand mobility and grip strength.

It is a benign disorder but can cause high morbidity by limiting daily activities.

Many factors have been proposed for its aetiology: namely genetics, smoking, alcohol intake and diabetes. However, there is still controversy as to the main aetiological cause of the disease.

Treatment is not yet uniform around the world and still varies with the surgeon’s experience and preference.

In this review, the authors review the pathogenesis and treatment options for Dupuytren’s disease in an attempt to summarize the current state of the art.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2019;4:63-69. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.4.180021.

Alternative and Adjunctive Treatments for Dupuytren Disease

Clinicians struggle with limited efficacy and durability of standard treatments when treating patients with Dupuytren disease diathesis. Alternative treatments such as low-dose radiation therapy in early phase of disease, supplemental pharmacotherapy with anti-inflammatory and/or anti-mitotic drugs, as well as other pharmacologic targets, and more aggressive surgery such as dermofasciectomy all have been reported with variable success or with serious side effects that hamper their standard use. This article gives an overview of the available literature.

A post hoc analysis of Dupuytren contracture treated with collagenase Clostridium histolyticum across disease stages

This post hoc analysis from a multicenter study (NCT01674634) was designed to evaluate the efficacy of collagenase Clostridium histolyticum (CCH) treatment in patients with different stages of Dupuytren contracture. Previously untreated patients who received two concurrent injections of CCH in two affected joints in the same finger were assessed by disease severity (Tubiana stage). The mean (SD) improvement in total fixed flexion contraction (FFC) 31 days post-CCH treatment in 181 patients was: 71.1 (36.5)% for Tubiana I, 77.0 (21.0)% for Tubiana II, 72.0 (20.4)% for Tubiana III and 66.4 (22.2)% for Tubiana IV. Treatment of metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints in the same finger resulted in a mean (SD) improvement of 82.5 (24.8)% and 66.4 (27.9)%, respectively. In conclusion, CCH is an effective treatment alternative for all stages of Dupuytren contracture and it provides a less invasive treatment alternative to surgery with similar short-term efficacy in patients with more severe disease.

DupuytrEn Treatment EffeCtiveness Trial (DETECT): a protocol for prospective, randomised, controlled, outcome assessor-blinded, three-armed parallel 1:1:1, multicentre trial comparing the effectiveness and cost of collagenase clostridium histolyticum, percutaneous needle fasciotomy and limited fasciectomy as short-term and long-term treatment strategies in Dupuytren's contracture

INTRODUCTION

Dupuytren's contracture (DC) is a chronic fibroproliferative disorder of the palmar fascia which leads to flexion contracture in one or more fingers. There is no definitive cure for DC, and treatment aims at relieving symptoms by releasing the contracture using percutaneous or operative techniques.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We planned a prospective, randomised, controlled, outcome assessor-blinded, three-armed parallel 1:1:1, multicentre trial comparing the effectiveness and cost of (1) collagenase clostridium histolyticum injection followed by limited fasciectomy in non-responsive cases, (2) percutaneous needle fasciotomy followed by limited fasciectomy in non-responsive cases and (3) primary limited fasciectomy during short-term and long-term follow-up for Tubiana I-III stages DC. We will recruit participants from seven national centres in Finland. Primary outcome is the rate of success in the treatment arm at 5 years after recruitment. Success is a composite outcome comprising (1) at least 50% contracture release from the date of recruitment and (2) participants in a patient-accepted symptom state (PASS). Secondary outcomes are (1) angle of contracture, (2) quick disabilities of the arm, a shoulder and hand outcome measure (QuickDASH), (3) perceived hand function, (4) EQ-5D-3L, (5) rate of major adverse events, (6) patient's trust of the treatment, (7) global rating, (8) rate of PASS, (9) rate of minimal clinically important improvement, (10) expenses, (11) progression of disease, (12) progression-free survival, (13) favoured treatment modality, (14) patients achieving full contracture release and >50% improvement and (15) patient satisfaction with the treatment effect. Predictive factors for achieving the PASS will also be analysed.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The protocol was approved by the Tampere University Hospital Institutional Review Board and Finnish Medicine Agency. The study will be performed according to the principles of good clinical practice. The results of the trial will be disseminated as published articles in peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03192020; Pre-results.

A Genome-wide Association Study of Dupuytren Disease Reveals 17 Additional Variants Implicated in Fibrosis

Individuals with Dupuytren disease (DD) are commonly seen by physicians and surgeons across multiple specialties. It is an increasingly common and disabling fibroproliferative disorder of the palmar fascia, which leads to flexion contractures of the digits, and is associated with other tissue-specific fibroses. DD affects between 5% and 25% of people of European descent and is the most common inherited disease of connective tissue. We undertook the largest GWAS to date in individuals with a surgically validated diagnosis of DD from the UK, with replication in British, Dutch, and German individuals. We validated association at all nine previously described signals and discovered 17 additional variants with p ≤ 5 × 10⁻⁸. As a proof of principle, we demonstrated correlation of the high-risk genotype at the statistically most strongly associated variant with decreased secretion of the soluble WNT-antagonist SFRP4, in surgical specimen-derived DD myofibroblasts. These results highlight important pathways involved in the pathogenesis of fibrosis, including WNT signaling, extracellular matrix modulation, and inflammation. In addition, many associated loci contain genes that were hitherto unrecognized as playing a role in fibrosis, opening up new avenues of research that may lead to novel treatments for DD and fibrosis more generally. DD represents an ideal human model disease for fibrosis research.

A feasibility study investigating the acceptability and design of a multicentre randomised controlled trial of needle fasciotomy versus limited fasciectomy for the treatment of Dupuytren's contractures of the fingers (HAND-1): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Dupuytren's contractures are fibrous cords under the skin of the palm of the hand. The contractures are painless but cause one or more fingers to curl into the palm, resulting in loss of function. Standard treatment within the NHS is surgery to remove (fasciectomy) or divide (fasciotomy) the contractures, and the treatment offered is frequently determined by surgeon preference. This study aims to determine the feasibility of conducting a large, multicentre randomised controlled trial to assess the clinical and cost-effectiveness of needle fasciotomy versus limited fasciectomy for the treatment of Dupuytren's contracture.

METHODS/DESIGN

HAND-1 is a parallel, two-arm, multicentre, randomised feasibility trial. Eligible patients aged 18 years or over who have one or more fingers with a Dupuytren's contracture of more than 30° in the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and/or proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints, well-defined cord(s) causing contracture, and have not undergone previous surgery for Dupuytren's on the same hand will be randomised (1:1) to treatment with either needle fasciotomy or limited fasciectomy. Participants will be followed-up for up to 6 months post surgery. Feasibility outcomes include number of patients screened, consented and randomised, adherence with treatment, completion of follow-up and identification of an appropriate patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) to use as primary outcome for a main trial. Embedded qualitative research, incorporating a QuinteT Recruitment Intervention, will focus on understanding and optimising the recruitment process, and exploring patients' experiences of trial participation and the interventions.

DISCUSSION

This study will assess whether a large multicentre trial comparing the clinical and cost-effectiveness of needle fasciotomy and limited fasciectomy for the treatment of Dupuytren's contractures is feasible, and if so will provide data to inform its design and successful conduct.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

International Standard Registered Clinical/soCial sTudy Number: ISRCTN11164292 . Registered on 28 August 2015.

Evidence-Based Medicine: Options for Dupuytren's Contracture: Incise, Excise, and Dissolve

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Understand updates in the basic science, epidemiology, and treatment of Dupuytren's disease. 2. Understand treatment with needle aponeurotomy, collagenase, and fasciectomy. 3. Understand advanced needle techniques for Dupuytren's contracture. 4. Understand the safety and effectiveness of a new treatment, collagenase.

SUMMARY

The literature on Dupuytren's disease encompasses many specialties. Its treatment is generally by perforating, excising, or dissolving the affected tissues. This article reviews the changing understanding of this disease and treatment options.

The Risk of Dupuytren Diagnosis in Obese Individuals

PURPOSE

Dupuytren disease is a common benign fibroproliferative disorder causing thickening and shortening of the palmar fascia of the hand. The exact etiology of the disease is unclear but known risk factors such as increased age, male sex, and northern European ethnicity have been established. A link between body mass index (BMI) and Dupuytren disease has not been established previously. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that lower BMI is associated with increased risk for Dupuytren disease diagnosis.

METHODS

After we obtained institutional review board approval, we performed a retrospective review using an electronic medical record and an administrative database from Kaiser Permanente Southern California to identify all enrolled patients there between 2007 and 2014 who were diagnosed with Dupuytren disease. Basic demographic data including age, sex, ethnicity, and BMI were collected. Bivariate and multivariable logistical regression analyses were performed to evaluate for associations between Dupuytren disease and BMI.

RESULTS

A total of 2,049,803 patients aged 18 years and older were enrolled in Kaiser Permanente Southern California from 2007 to 2014. During that period, 14,844 patients were identified as having Dupuytren disease. The data were consistent with well-defined demographic trends in Dupuytren disease, with increased rates seen in males, Caucasians, and patients aged 50 years and older. In the multivariable analysis, when controlling for age, race, and sex, the risk of Dupuytren disease was inversely proportional to BMI.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study showed that higher BMI is associated with decreased odds of having Dupuytren disease. Further work will be required to determine the cause for the apparent relationship between Dupuytren disease and BMI and whether physiologic factors related to obesity may be protective against the development of Dupuytren disease.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic II.

[Epidemiology of Dupuytren's disease]

Dupuytren's disease is a chronic disease of the elderly. Assuming that life expectancy will increase considerably in the coming decades, Dupuytren's disease will gain more medical and socioeconomic relevance. In addition to well-known familial and genetic causes, other environmental factors (nicotine, diabetes, alcohol, trauma, work) are discussed. Knowledge of all factors and their influence on the onset and severity of the disease is important for diagnosis, therapy, and prevention of the disease.

Dupuytren's Contracture

Dupuytren's disorder is considered a genetic disorder and therefore not covered under workers' compensation. Personal risk factors include workers of Northern European descent and workers that are older than 50 years. However, new evidence has shown that certain occupational activities may increase the risk of developing this disorder. This article is a review of the literature with a case study. Work-related and personal risk factors are explored, as well as interventions and return to work recommendations.

Dupuytren's contracture in Ethiopia

Dupuytren's contracture is believed to be rare in Africa. We have observed the disease in many patients coming to our hospital. This study aimed to provide information concerning the occurrence of the disease and risk factors in these patients. All 75 patients who were referred to the hospital during a 2-year period because of a hand problem that was diagnosed as Dupuytren's contracture were included. The demographic data of the patients and possible risk factors were recorded and compared with a control group. The male to female ratio was 18:1. The little and ring fingers were most commonly affected. A total of 43 had bilateral hand involvement. The condition affected only the left hand in one patient. Six men also had fibromatosis of the soles of the feet and three of the penis. There was a statistically significant association with hypertension and alcohol consumption, but not with diabetes mellitus. We conclude that there are more cases of Dupuytren's contracture in Ethiopia than previously thought.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Meta-Analysis of Genome-Wide Association Studies and Network Analysis-Based Integration with Gene Expression Data Identify New Suggestive Loci and Unravel a Wnt-Centric Network Associated with Dupuytren's Disease

Dupuytren´s disease, a fibromatosis of the connective tissue in the palm, is a common complex disease with a strong genetic component. Up to date nine genetic loci have been found to be associated with the disease. Six of these loci contain genes that code for Wnt signalling proteins. In spite of this striking first insight into the genetic factors in Dupuytren´s disease, much of the inherited risk in Dupuytren´s disease still needs to be discovered. The already identified loci jointly explain ~1% of the heritability in this disease. To further elucidate the genetic basis of Dupuytren´s disease, we performed a genome-wide meta-analysis combining three genome-wide association study (GWAS) data sets, comprising 1,580 cases and 4,480 controls. We corroborated all nine previously identified loci, six of these with genome-wide significance (p-value < 5x10^-8). In addition, we identified 14 new suggestive loci (p-value < 10⁻⁵). Intriguingly, several of these new loci contain genes associated with Wnt signalling and therefore represent excellent candidates for replication. Next, we compared whole-transcriptome data between patient- and control-derived tissue samples and found the Wnt/β-catenin pathway to be the top deregulated pathway in patient samples. We then conducted network and pathway analyses in order to identify protein networks that are enriched for genes highlighted in the GWAS meta-analysis and expression data sets. We found further evidence that the Wnt signalling pathways in conjunction with other pathways may play a critical role in Dupuytren´s disease.

The quantitative role of flexor sheath incision in correcting Dupuytren proximal interphalangeal joint contractures

Controversy exists regarding intra-operative treatment of residual proximal interphalangeal joint contractures after Dupuytren's fasciectomy. We test the hypothesis that a simple release of the digital flexor sheath can correct residual fixed flexion contracture after subtotal fasciectomy. We prospectively enrolled 19 patients (22 digits) with Dupuytren's contracture of the proximal interphalangeal joint. The average pre-operative extension deficit of the proximal interphalangeal joints was 58° (range 30-90). The flexion contracture of the joint was corrected to an average of 28° after fasciectomy. In most digits (20 of 21), subsequent incision of the flexor sheath further corrected the contracture by an average of 23°, resulting in correction to an average flexion contracture of 4.7° (range 0-40). Our results support that contracture of the tendon sheath is a contributor to Dupuytren's contracture of the joint and that sheath release is a simple, low morbidity addition to correct Dupuytren's contractures of the proximal interphalangeal joint. Additional release of the proximal interphalangeal joint after fasciectomy, after release of the flexor sheath, is not necessary in many patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV (Case Series, Therapeutic).