<p>Plummer-Vinson syndrome: improving outcomes with a multidisciplinary approach</p>

Abstract

Plummer-Vinson syndrome is a rare condition associated with dysphagia, iron deficiency, and esophageal webs. Data regarding this condition is limited to mostly case reports and a few small cohort studies. Although most cases have a benign and indolent course, the risk of malignancy warrants long-term surveillance. A multidisciplinary approach among healthcare providers is of the utmost importance in the management of this condition.

The Missing Link: A Case of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome in a Young Pacific-Islander Woman With Helicobacter Pylori

“…It is often low-grade, intermittent, and painless. The progression of dysphagia is slow and can take several years [ 12 ]. Patients also often have IDA, which can present with non-specific signs and symptoms.…”

“…Autoimmunity is thought to play a role, as PVS is associated with other autoimmune conditions, such as celiac disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and Crohn’s disease. Furthermore, chronic inflammation from a variety of factors has been proposed as part of the pathogenesis [ 1 , 2 , 11 , 12 ]. H. pylori infection impairs iron absorption as a result of chronic gastritis, which causes gastric hypochlorhydria and subsequent impaired iron uptake and an increase in iron loss, potentially leading to IDA.…”

“…There have also been reports of gastric cancer. Thus, regular follow-up with endoscopic surveillance for this premalignant condition is recommended even after the resolution of symptoms [ 1 , 3 , 11 , 12 ].…”

“…On the other hand, PVS has been increasingly recognized in the developing countries of Asia. However, there is a lack of reported cases of PVS among Pacific islanders [ 9 , 11 , 12 ].…”

“…Moreover, endoscopic dilation can be performed in patients with persistent dysphagia [ 1 , 2 ]. PVS can be associated with an increased risk for upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract cancers, especially squamous cell carcinoma of the hypopharynx and proximal esophagus; therefore, regular surveillance with esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is recommended [ 1 , 3 , 11 , 12 ]. We present the case of a 29-year-old Pacific-islander woman who presented with progressive dysphagia and IDA and was found to have an esophageal web and Helicobacter pylori ( H. pylori ) gastritis on EGD.…”