What is the natural course of the disorder with no treatment?

The disease often causes progressive contractures. Involved tissues become fibrous and rarely may develop cartilage or calcium deposits. The younger the person is when they first develop Dupuytren’s, the more likely they will need surgery, and the younger the patient is when surgery is needed, the greater the chance for recurrence. Overall, finger contractures develop in about one in 20 people with Dupuytren’s disease. If finger contractures develop, eventually, function is lost – but function and dexterity can be improved with correction of the contractures. Spontaneous regression is rare. Spontaneous regression of knuckle pads has been reported in children.