PURPOSE:  In the plastic surgery texts and literature Dupuytren's contracture is noted to be strongly associated with patients of Northern European descent. Although this is clearly the case, patients of other ethnic backgrounds suffer from this disease as well. In this paper we present an African American patient who presented to the Kansas City VA Hosptial with classical manifestations of Dupuytren's contracture. We review the literature in an attempt to quantify the incidence of Dupuytren's in African Americans. 

METHOD: We describe a case of an African American patient with Dupuytren's contracture of his left ring finger. His surgical treatment and post operative hand function are discussed. A review of the literature to attempt to determine the prevalence of Dupuytren's in African American patients is presented as well.

RESULTS: Although rare, Dupuytren's contracture affects African American patients and should not be overlooked. Diagnosis and treatment are similar to patients of Northern European descent.

CONCLUSION: Dupuytren's contracture should not be overlooked in African American patients.