In Dupuytren contracture, what sign is characteristic?

• A. Palpable fissure at the 4th-5th palmar fascia
• B. Popliteal fullness
• C. Palpable point tenderness
• D. Finkelstein's Test

Answer: (A)

Dupuytren contracture is a fibrous proliferation of the palmar fascia that forms cords and nodules, leading to flexion contractures of the ring and little fingers. A hallmark finding is a palpable abnormal structure in the palm, typically on the ulnar side between the 4th and 5th digits, where thickened fascia or a cord can be felt. This palpable cord or thickening is what the option describes as a palpable fissure at the 4th-5th palmar fascia, and it best matches the characteristic sign of the condition. The other choices point to signs or tests for different conditions (a Baker’s cyst, general focal tenderness, or De Quervain’s tenosynovitis), which are not typical signs of Dupuytren contracture.