Plummer-Vinson syndrome

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Date: Oct. 2013
From: Journal of Oral Health Research(Vol. 4, Issue 4)
Publisher: Consortium of Research Ardent Dentists (CORAD)
Document Type: Case study
Length: 2,001 words
Lexile Measure: 1450L

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Abstract :

Plummer-Vinson or Paterson-Kelly syndrome presents as a classical triad of dysphagia, iron deficiency anemia and esophageal webs. It typically affects middle aged females who may have other features of chronic iron deficiency, namely papillary atrophy of the tongue, spoon shaped brittle nails, angular stomatitis and pica. Since the dysphagia is associated with iron deficiency anaemia, the term sideropenic dysphagia has often been used to describe this condition. The oesophageal web is best diagnosed on barium swallow. Etiopathogenesis of Plummer-Vinson syndrome is unknown but the most important possible etiological factor is iron deficiency. Other possible factors include malnutrition, genetic predisposition or autoimmune processes. Plummer-Vinson syndrome can be treated effectively with iron supplementation. Since Plummer-Vinson syndrome is associated with an increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma of the pharynx and the esophagus, the patients should be followed closely. The incidence of this condition is decreasing; however, because of better nutrition and improved health care. Since PVS is associated with an increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma of the pharynx and the oesophagus, the patients should be followed closely with GI endoscopic examination at regular interval. This paper presents a case of a 69-year-old woman with Plummer-Vinson syndrome who was successfully treated. Keywords Plummer Vision Syndrome, Paterson-Kelly Syndrome, Iron Deficiency Anemia, Oseophageal Web.
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Gale Document Number: GALE|A378369266