Dupuytren’s Disease: Viking & Neanderthal Connections
Dupuytren’s disease, also known as Dupuytren’s Contracture, is a frustrating and perplexing condition affecting the hand and fingers. While this ailment, sometimes referred to as “Viking disease,” has intrigued scientists and researchers for decades, it is still not fully understood.
But one thing is clear: Dupuytren’s contracture can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. The progressive tightening of the hand’s connective tissue can result in finger deformities, limited mobility, and difficulty performing everyday tasks such as grasping objects, writing, or even shaking hands. The condition may also cause social and emotional challenges, affecting self-esteem, independence, and overall well-being.
Recent investigations have shed light on the potential link between Dupuytren’s disease and Neanderthal ancestry, suggesting a better understanding of the evolutionary aspect to its origins, and providing valuable insights into its prevalence across different populations.
In this article, board certified Detroit area hand specialist Dr. Uzma Rehman explores Dupuytren’s disease and the new research regarding its association with Neanderthal genetics.
What is Dupuytren’s Disease?
Dupuytren’s disease is a progressive hand disorder that affects the connective tissues beneath the skin of the palm and fingers. Named after the French surgeon Baron Guillaume Dupuytren, who first described it in 1831, the disease is characterized by the formation of thickened, fibrous cords or bands of tissue.
Over time, these cords contract and pull the affected fingers into a bent or flexed position, leading to functional limitations and reduced hand mobility.
The Viking Connection to Dupuytren’s Disease
Dupuytren’s disease has earned the name “Viking disease” because it is much more commonly found among individuals of Northern European descent. Historical evidence suggests a possible connection between this condition and the Vikings, who were known for their seafaring activities and exploration during the Middle Ages.
Some theories propose that the genetic factors contributing to Dupuytren’s disease may have been more prevalent in Viking populations, resulting in a higher prevalence among their descendants. So if you suffer from Dupuytren’s Contracture, you may have some Viking or Scandinavian ancestry that’s to blame.
Neanderthal Origins: New Research Insights
However, going much farther back than Vikings, recent scientific research has uncovered a potential link between Dupuytren’s disease and Neanderthals, our ancient hominid relatives.
Neanderthals were a distinct species of ‘hominins’ who lived in Eurasia until around 40,000 years ago, and are considered our closest evolutionary relatives, sharing a common ancestor with modern humans. Neanderthals and humans interbred to some extent, evidenced by the presence of Neanderthal DNA in the genomes of non-African populations today.
Neanderthals walked on two legs, had relatively large brains, and used tools. Despite their extinction, the study of Neanderthals provides valuable insights into human evolution and our shared history.
A recent study conducted by geneticists and anthropologists has identified a specific gene variant associated with an increased risk of Dupuytren’s disease. And, surprisingly, this gene variant is also found in Neanderthal DNA extracted from ancient bones, suggesting a shared genetic heritage.
The research indicates that this particular gene that is associated with risk of Dupuytren’s disease may have been inherited from interbreeding events between modern humans and Neanderthals, which occurred tens of thousands of years ago. Although the precise mechanisms by which this gene variant contributes to Dupuytren’s disease are still being explored, this discovery adds an evolutionary dimension to our understanding of this condition.
Ethnic Breakdown of Dupuytren’s Disease
Dupuytren’s disease exhibits different rates across different ethnic groups. While it predominantly affects individuals of Northern European descent – particularly those with Scandinavian and Celtic ancestry – it can also occur in individuals from other backgrounds. The condition is less common in populations of African, Asian, and Native American heritage.
But it is important to note that the development of Dupuytren’s disease is influenced by multiple factors in addition to ethnicity and genetic predisposition, such as environmental triggers.
Am I at Risk for Dupuytren’s Disease?
While certain populations may have a higher likelihood of developing the condition, it can still occur sporadically in individuals without a direct genetic connection to Vikings, Celts, or Scandinavians.
Early signs of Dupuytren’s disease may include the formation of small, painless lumps or nodules in the palm of the hand. These nodules are typically firm and can be felt beneath the skin. Over time, these nodules may progress into thickened cords that extend from the palm to the fingers, causing the fingers to bend inward or contract.
If you suspect you have Dupuytren’s disease, it is advisable to consult with board certified hand surgeon like Dr. Rehman as soon as possible. She can evaluate the hand and provide a definitive diagnosis. As with any disease, early detection is key.
While there is currently no cure for Dupuytren’s disease, yet, Dr. Rehman can recommend suitable interventions, such as nonsurgical therapies or surgical procedures, based on your individual case and specific symptoms.
