Heredity is a major factor and the disease may affect successive generations. Although prevalent in the 40-60 age group, the most aggressive form is in younger males. The youngest reported case was an 11 year old female. Her father had severe bilateral disease. Despite the detailed knowledge about the disease, research has not established the cause.
Clinical studies confirm a higher incidence in alcoholics, diabetics and persons with epilepsy.
There is no proof that injury can cause Dupuytren's. However, patients with a predilection for the disease may have an earlier onset as the result of an injury. Dupuytren's usually begins as a painless lump or pit near the palmar crease at the base of the ring, little or middle fingers, or along the front of a finger. The index finger and thumb are seldom involved. A contracting band or cord of diseased fascia may take years to form.