Biochemistry and histology of the connective tissue of Dupuytren's disease lesions.

When compared to age-matched control aponeurosis, lesions of Dupuytren's disease contain higher contents of water, collagen and chondroitin-sulphate, as well as increased proportions of soluble collagens and of reducible cross-links; these indicate synthesis of new collagen. The lesions show also increased amounts of type III collagen and an increased hydroxylation and glycosylation of the reducible cross-links. All these parameters are characteristic of granulation and scar tissues.