Plummer-Vinson Syndrome Overview
Learn About Plummer-Vinson Syndrome
Plummer-Vinson syndrome is a condition that can occur in people with long-term (chronic) iron deficiency anemia. People with this condition have problems swallowing due to small, thin growths of tissue that partially block the upper food pipe (esophagus).
Paterson-Kelly syndrome; Sideropenic dysphagia; Esophageal web
The cause of Plummer-Vinson syndrome is unknown. Genetic factors and a lack of certain nutrients (nutritional deficiencies) may play a role. It is a rare disorder that can be linked to cancers of the esophagus and throat. It is more common in women.
Symptoms may include:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Weakness
Taking iron supplements may improve the swallowing problems.
If supplements do not help, the web of tissue can be widened during upper endoscopy. This will allow you to swallow food normally.
Baptist Health Services
Varant Arzoumanian is a Hematologist Oncology specialist and a Hematologist in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Dr. Arzoumanian and is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome. His top areas of expertise are Pleuropulmonary Blastoma, Lung Cancer, Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), Lung Adenocarcinoma, and Bone Marrow Aspiration. Dr. Arzoumanian is currently accepting new patients.
Mohammad Malik is a Hematologist Oncology specialist and a Hematologist in Crossett, Arkansas. Dr. Malik and is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome. His top areas of expertise are Familial Colorectal Cancer, Thrombocytopenia, Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), and Squamous Cell Lung Carcinoma. Dr. Malik is currently accepting new patients.
James Zini is a Family Medicine provider in Mountain View, Arkansas. Dr. Zini and is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome. His top areas of expertise are Relapsing Fever, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Necrosis, Peptic Ulcer, and Hip Replacement. Dr. Zini is currently accepting new patients.
People with this condition generally respond to treatment.
Devices used to stretch the esophagus (dilators) may cause a tear. This can lead to bleeding.
Plummer-Vinson syndrome has been linked to esophageal cancer.
Contact your provider if:
- Food gets stuck after you swallow it
- You have severe fatigue and weakness
Getting enough iron in your diet may prevent this disorder.
Published Date: November 02, 2022
Published By: Michael M. Phillips, MD, Emeritus Professor of Medicine, The George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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