[Raynaud's syndrome, Dupuytren's disease, force of prehension and sensitivity of the hand. Study of age-related changes].

The prevalence of Raynaud's syndrome, of arterial calcifications and of Dupuytren's contracture was studied in 155 subjects of both sexes, decade by decade from 20 to 90 years. Moreover the force of prehension and two-point discrimination were measured separately. The prevalence of Raynaud's syndrome was 9% independent of variations in age or of sex. The prevalence of Dupuytren's contracture was equally 9% but only subjects over 60 years old (and one woman) were affected. The force of prehension diminished significantly with age, more in women than in men, and more in older patients presenting arthritis. Lastly, tactile sensibility decreased with age but individual variations were important.