Plummer–Vinson syndrome is a rare disease characterized by difficulty swallowing, iron-deficiency anemia, glossitis, cheilosis and esophageal webs. Treatment with iron supplementation and mechanical widening of the esophagus generally provides an excellent outcome. While exact data about the epidemiology is unknown, this syndrome has become extremely rare. The reduction in the prevalence of Plummer–Vinson syndrome has been hypothesized to be the result of improvements in nutritional status and availability in countries where the syndrome was previously described. It generally occurs in perimenopausal women. Its identification and follow-up is considered relevant due to increased risk of squamous cell carcinomas of the esophagus and pharynx.
Presentation
Patients with Plummer–Vinson syndrome often have a burning sensation with the tongue and oral mucosa, and atrophy of lingual papillae produces a smooth, shiny, red, dorsum of the tongue. Symptoms include:
Serial contrasted gastrointestinal radiography or upper-gastrointestinal endoscopy may reveal the web in the esophagus.Blood tests demonstrate a hypochromic microcytic anemia that is consistent with an iron-deficiency anemia. Biopsy of involved mucosa typically reveals epithelial atrophy and varying amounts of submucosal chronic inflammation. Epithelial atypia or dysplasia may be present. It may also present as a post-cricoid malignancy which can be detected by loss of laryngeal crepitus. Laryngeal crepitus is found normally and is produced because the cricoid cartilage rubs against the vertebrae.
Causes
The cause of Plummer–Vinson syndrome is unknown; however, genetic factors and nutritional deficiencies may play a role. It is more common in women, particularly in middle age, with a peak age over 50 years. In these patients, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma risk is increased; therefore, it is considered a premalignant process. The condition is associated with abnormally thin nails called spoon nails, an enlarged spleen, inflammation of the tongue and lips. Esophageal webs in Plummer–Vinson syndrome are found at upper end of esophagus and Schatzki rings may be found at the lower end of esophagus.
Diagnosis
The Following clinical presentations may be used in the diagnosis of this condition.
The following tests are helpful in the diagnosis of Plummer–Vinson syndrome.
Lab tests
Complete blood cell counts, peripheral blood smears, and iron studies to confirm iron deficiency, either with or without hypochromic microcytic anemia.
Imaging
Barium esophagography and videofluoroscopy will help to detect esophageal webs. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy will enable visual confirmation of esophageal webs. The webs occur due to sub-epithelial fibrosis.
Prevention
Good nutrition with adequate intake of iron may prevent this disorder. Good nutrition should also include balanced diet and exercise.
Treatment
Treatment is primarily aimed at correcting the iron-deficiency anemia. Patients with Plummer–Vinson syndrome should receive iron supplementation in their diet. This may improve dysphagia and pain. If not, the web can be dilated with esophageal bougies during upper endoscopy to allow normal swallowing and passage of food.
Complications
There is risk of perforation of the esophagus with the use of dilators for treatment. Furthermore, it is one of the risk factors for developing squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, esophagus, and hypopharynx.
Prognosis
Patients generally respond well to treatment. Iron supplementation usually resolves the anemia, and corrects the glossodynia.
Epidemiology
PVS is an extremely rare condition, though its exact prevalence is unknown. While it is becoming less common in developed countries, the condition is increasingly found in developing countries, particularly in Asia. However, it is very rarely seen in African countries, despite the relatively high prevalence of iron deficiency.
