Plummer-Vinson (PV) syndrome predominantly affects middle-aged females. It consists of atrophy of the mucous membrane of the alimentary tract, subepithelial fibrosis in lower part of laryngopharynx and iron deficiency anemia.
CLINICAL FEATURES
- Dysphagia immediately after trying to swallow food
- Iron-deficiency anemia
- Oesophageal varies
- Glossitis
- Angular stomatitis Koilonychias (spooning of nails)
- Achlorhydria
POTENTIAL OF MALIGNANT CONVERSION
The PV syndrome may be associated with carcinoma of the tongue, buccal mucosa, pharynx, esophagus or stomach. About 10% of the patients develop postcricoid carcinoma.
DIAGNOSIS
Barium swallow and esophagoscopy: A hypopharyngeal web (subepithelial fibrosis) can be seen in the postcricoid region.
TREATMENT
- Oral or parenteral iron: For correcting anemia. Serum level of iron is more important than
- Vitamins B₁₂ and B6
- Esophagoscopy and dilatation of webbed area with bougies.
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