Plummer-Vinson syndrome/esophageal web
Key points
- Plummer-Vinson syndrome is a disorder linked to severe, long-term Iron deficiency anemia, which causes swallowing difficulty due to web-like membranes of tissue growing in the throat.
- Genetic factors and nutritional deficiencies may play a role.
- Upper GI series or upper endoscopy may reveal the web.
- Patients with Plummer-Vinson syndrome should receive iron supplementation.
Alternative names
Paterson-Kelly syndrome; Sideropenic dysphagia
Definition
Plummer-Vinson syndrome is a disorder linked to severe, long-term Iron deficiency anemia, which causes swallowing difficulty due to web-like membranes of tissue growing in the throat.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The cause of Plummer-Vinson syndrome is unknown. Genetic factors and nutritional deficiencies may play a role. Women are at higher risk than men.
Symptoms
- Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
- Weakness
Signs and tests
Upper GI series or upper endoscopy may reveal the web. Tests to diagnose anemia and/or iron deficiency may be useful.
Treatment
Patients with Plummer-Vinson syndrome should receive iron supplementation. This may improve the difficulty swallowing. If not, the web can be dilated during upper endoscopy to allow normal swallowing and passage of food.
Expectations (prognosis)
Patients generally respond to treatment.
Complications
There is risk of perforation of the esophagus with the use of dilators for treatment.
There have been reports of an association between Plummer-Vinson syndrome and esophageal cancer.
Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider if food gets stuck after you swallow it or if you have severe fatigue and weakness.
Prevention
Good nutrition with adequate intake of iron may prevent this disorder.
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
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