A case study of Plummer-Vinson syndrome

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Gastroenterology
• Oncology

Background:

• Plummer Vinson's Syndrome (PVS) is a rare disorder characterized by iron deficiency anemia, post-cricoid webs, and dysphagia.
• While PVS is associated with an increased risk of upper aerodigestive tract cancers, the exact incidence and management strategies require further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the co-morbid conditions associated with Plummer Vinson's Syndrome.
• To evaluate the efficacy of iron and B-complex supplementation and bouginage in managing PVS symptoms.
• To assess the incidence of post-cricoid carcinoma at presentation in a case series of PVS patients.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series analysis.
• Clinical appraisal of iron and B-complex supplementation.
• Assessment of symptomatic relief following bouginage.

Main Results:

• The most frequent comorbidity was post-cricoid webs, with dysphagia being a common symptom.
• A female preponderance was observed, with the typical age of presentation in the 5th decade.
• Only 10% of cases presented with co-existing post-cricoid carcinoma; however, iron and B-complex supplementation provided good symptomatic relief, and bouginage was effective in all treated cases.

Conclusions:

• Plummer Vinson's Syndrome predominantly affects middle-aged women and is characterized by post-cricoid webs and dysphagia.
• Iron and B-complex supplementation may offer symptomatic relief and potentially reduce the risk of malignant transformation.
• Bouginage is an effective therapeutic option for symptom management in PVS.