Plummer-Vinson SyndromeSymptoms, Doctors, Treatments, Advances & More
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 (webs) 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 (in particular iron deficiency anemia) 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 or fatigue from the anemia
Taking iron supplements may improve the swallowing problems. Sometimes, intravenous (IV) iron is needed.
If supplements do not help, the web of tissue can be widened during upper endoscopy. This will allow you to swallow food normally.
Digestive Health Specialists, PC
John Levey is an Internal Medicine provider practicing medicine in Chelmsford, Massachusetts. Dr. Levey is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome. He is also highly rated in 8 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Plummer-Vinson Syndrome, Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy. Dr. Levey is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.
OSF Moeller Cancer Center
Manpreet Sandhu is a Hematologist and an Oncologist practicing medicine in Alton, Illinois. Dr. Sandhu is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome. She is also highly rated in 45 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Plummer-Vinson Syndrome, Laryngeal Cancer, Childhood Iron Deficiency Anemia, and Lung Cancer. Dr. Sandhu is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.
Ballad Health Cancer Center
. Dr. Shipstone is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome. He is also highly rated in 54 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Adult Immune Thrombocytopenia, Colorectal Cancer, Hemangioma Thrombocytopenia Syndrome, and Thrombocytopenia. Dr. Shipstone is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.
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: October 30, 2024
Published By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Gastroenterologist, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. 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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