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.
Prisma Health University Medical Group
Karyn Dyehouse is an Oncologist and a Hematologist in Seneca, South Carolina. Dr. Dyehouse and is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome. Her top areas of expertise are Paget Disease of the Breast, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, and WT1-Related Wilms Tumor Syndromes. Dr. Dyehouse is currently accepting new patients.
Jeffrey Giguere is a Hematologist Oncology specialist and an Oncologist in Seneca, South Carolina. Dr. Giguere and is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome. His top areas of expertise are Breast Cancer, Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), Colorectal Cancer, Lung Cancer, and Bone Marrow Aspiration.
Prisma Health University Medical Group
Ross Michels is a Hematologist Oncology specialist and a Hematologist in Seneca, South Carolina. Dr. Michels and is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome. His top areas of expertise are Large-Cell Immunoblastic Lymphoma, Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN), Lynch Syndrome, and Colorectal Cancer. Dr. Michels 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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