[Pathogenesis of Dupuytren's contracture--a review]

Dupuytren's disease is a palmar fibromatosis bringing about irreversible finger contracture. Histopathologically, the disease is characterized by the presence of the two types of structures: nodules, containing of intensively proliferating cells, and fibrous cords, formed by thick bundles of collagen fibers. It seems that key role in the development of Dupuytren's contracture play alterations of palmar fibroblasts activity. These cells begin intensively proliferate and transform to myofibroblasts. The later ones sharing phenotypic features of fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells take part in remodelling of extracellular matrix and are a source of palmar contracture. The pivotal factors involved in changes of palmar fibroblasts functions seem to be growth factors (mainly TGF beta, PDGF and bFGF). However, the participation of reactive forms of oxygen in mentioned process is also considered.