Learn About Plummer-Vinson Syndrome

What is the definition of 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).

What are the alternative names for Plummer-Vinson Syndrome?

Paterson-Kelly syndrome; Sideropenic dysphagia; Esophageal web

What are the causes of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome?

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.

What are the symptoms of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome?

Symptoms may include:

  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Weakness
Not sure about your diagnosis?
Check Your Symptoms
What are the current treatments for Plummer-Vinson Syndrome?

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.

Who are the top Plummer-Vinson Syndrome Local Doctors?
Hematology Oncology | Hematology | Oncology
Hematology Oncology | Hematology | Oncology

Baptist Health Services

1001 Towson Ave, Suite 300, 
Fort Smith, AR 
 (116.2 mi)
Languages Spoken:
English
Accepting New Patients

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.

Hematology Oncology | Hematology | Oncology
Hematology Oncology | Hematology | Oncology
313 N Alabama St Ste 1, 
Crossett, AR 
 (91.5 mi)
Languages Spoken:
English
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.

 
 
 
 
Learn about our expert tiers
Learn More
Family Medicine
Family Medicine
1816 E Main St, 
Mountain View, AR 
 (131.9 mi)
Languages Spoken:
English
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.

What is the outlook (prognosis) for Plummer-Vinson Syndrome?

People with this condition generally respond to treatment.

What are the possible complications of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome?

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.

When should I contact a medical professional for Plummer-Vinson Syndrome?

Contact your provider if:

  • Food gets stuck after you swallow it
  • You have severe fatigue and weakness
How do I prevent Plummer-Vinson Syndrome?

Getting enough iron in your diet may prevent this disorder.

What are the latest Plummer-Vinson Syndrome Clinical Trials?
Match to trials
Find the right clinical trials for you in under a minute
Get started
What are the Latest Advances for Plummer-Vinson Syndrome?
Who are the sources who wrote this article ?

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.

What are the references for this article ?

Hammad H, Wani S. Esophageal tumors. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 48.

Kavitt RT, Vaezi MF. Diseases of the esophagus. In: Flint PW, Francis HW, Haughey BH, et al, eds. Cummings Otolaryngology: Head and Neck Surgery. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 68.

Rustgi AK. Neoplasms of the esophagus and stomach. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 183.