What is the 'Viking disease,' a common pathology in Norwegian men?

A condition popularly known as the "Viking disease," medically termed Dupuytren's contracture, is affecting hands and hindering daily activities for many, particularly men of Northern European ancestry.

The disease originates in the palmar fascia, a tissue layer covering the hand's muscles and tendons. In affected individuals, this tissue thickens abnormally, creating bands or cords beneath the skin. Over time, these structures pull the fingers inward toward the palm, preventing the hand from fully extending.

"We don't know the evolution of this disease; that is, in some it can progress slowly and in others more rapidly and aggressively. We also don't know a treatment to stop it, but the definitive treatment will be surgical," explained traumatologist Sandra Pérez in a social media video. She added that surgery is recommended when a patient cannot fully extend their hand on a flat surface.

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We don't know the evolution of this disease; that is, in some it can progress slowly and in others more rapidly and aggressively. We also don't know a treatment to stop it, but the definitive treatment will be surgical.

While relatively rare, affecting an estimated 1% to 2% of the population, Dupuytren's contracture can significantly impair autonomy. Advanced cases can make simple actions like opening the hand, shaking hands, putting on gloves, or holding tools difficult. Although not typically causing severe pain, the progressive loss of mobility profoundly affects daily life.

Surgical treatment can restore much of the hand's mobility and functionality. However, the outcome depends on the disease's severity and how long the fingers have been contracted. Specialists also caution that the condition can recur, necessitating regular medical check-ups.

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When we ask the patient to place the hand on a flat surface, but they cannot achieve full extension on this surface. The treatment will be a selective resection of this cord.