Plummer-Vinson Syndrome: A Rare Cause of Dysphagia in Children

Abstract

Plummer-Vinson Syndrome (PVS) or Paterson-Brown-Kelly syndrome is characterized by the classical triad of iron deficiency anemia, esophageal webs and dysphagia. PVS is commonly found in women of middle age especially in the fourth and fifth decade of life and is rarely reported in children. We report a case of a 4-year-old girl who had a classic presentation of PVS. Early diagnosis is of utmost importance for better prognosis as PVS is a precancerous condition with high malignant potential. Mainstay of management is correction of anemia by iron supplementation. Majority of the cases iron repletion improves the dysphagia. In some cases; esophageal dilatation is used to provide symptomatic relief.