Which joint is primarily involved in Dupuytren's Contracture?

Dupuytren's Contracture primarily affects the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints of the fingers. This condition involves the thickening and shortening of the fascia in the palm of the hand, leading to a gradual flexion of the involved fingers. As the fibrous tissue under the skin thickens, it can create palpable nodules and cords that pull the fingers towards the palm, significantly restricting extension at the MCP and PIP joints.

In contrast, the wrist joint, the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint, and the thumb saddle joint are not primarily impacted by this condition. While the wrist joint plays a role in general hand function, it is not the site of contracture as seen in Dupuytren's. Similarly, the DIP joint may be affected in a more advanced stage of the condition, but it is the MCP and PIP joints that are primarily involved in the characteristic contracture that defines Dupuytren's. The thumb saddle joint, which allows for the unique movement of the thumb, is also not involved in this specific contracture process.