[Immunologic aspects in the pathogenesis of Dupuytren's contracture].

In 30 patients suffering from Dupuytren' disease the following cellular and humoral tests were carried out: 1. Migration inhibitory test using the palmaraponeurosis as an antigen. - 2. Determination of the serum level of IgG, IgA and IgM. - 3. Determination of humoral antibodies against mitochondria, cellnuclei and smooth muscles. - An inhibition of migration could be observed in 24 out of 30 patients (80%) (MI 0.85). 6 patients had a migration index above 0.85. The serum-level of IgA was elevated in 12 patients. IgG was abnormal in only 5 patients out of 30; the same was true for IgM in 3 out of 30 patients. In 4 patients low titers of humoral antibodies could be found. Consequently, the conclusion is drawn that inadequate cellular immunoreaction against the same body tissue could be a prerequisite for the development of Dupuytren's disease.