Abstract

Background:Plummer Vinson syndrome is a rare nowadays affliction that is characterized by the classical triad of dysphagia, hyposideremic anemia and esophageal webs. It is more common among middle aged women and with time it increases the risk of proximal esophagus and pharyngeal cancer. Regarding its etiology, this is still unknown and possible iron or vitamin B deficiency were incriminated. Plummer Vinson’s main characteristic is the presence of esophageal webs consisting of fibrosis, epithelial cells and chronic inflammatory elements.

Case report:A 44 years old women known with hyperthyroidism presented to the emergency room complaining of chronic progressive dysphagia. Complete blood count revealed severe hypochromic microcytic anemia and further tests showed iron deficiency. Upper digestive endoscopy was performed and esophageal webs were incriminated as the cause of dysphagia. Dilatation with Savary-Gilliard dilators was performed and iron supplementation was administered. Although additional examinations were performed in order to display the possible cause of iron deficiency, no underlying pathology was found. One-month follow up evaluation revealed no more dysphagia, no esophageal stenosis and improvement of hemoglobin levels.

Conclusion:Plummer Vinson Syndrome is a rare disease, which is caused by possible iron deficiency. Endoscopic dilatation and iron supplementation bring total symptomatology disappearance.

Keywords:Plummer vinson syndrome; Dysphagia; Esophageal webs; Anemia; Iron deficiency