Collagenase clostridium histolyticum injection for the treatment of Dupuytren's contracture.

Collagenase clostridium histolyticum is a novel treatment for Dupuytren's contracture, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in February 2010. Prior to its availability, surgery was the only treatment for contracture related to this disorder. Dupuytren's disease is a benign, progressive fibroproliferative disorder affecting the palms of the hands. It is characterized by the formation of collagen- rich nodules and cords, which gradually shorten by the action of myofibroblasts, resulting in finger contractures. Intralesional use of clostridial collagenase has been evaluated in a total of 1,082 patients receiving 2,630 injections during its clinical development, including 2 large prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials: Collagenase Option for Reduction of Dupuytren's I (CORD I) and CORD II. Both studies showed a statistically significant reduction in contracture compared to placebo and treatment was well-tolerated with the majority of adverse events self-limited. Serious adverse events related to collagenase activity were rare. Maximal improvement was seen in patients with less severe contractures and with contractures of the metacarpophalangeal joint. This first-in-class biologic, injectable clostridial collagenase histolyticum, provides a safe, effective alternative to surgery for patients with Dupuytren's contracture.