Plummer-Vinson Syndrome: Epidemiological Characteristics and Endoscopic Dilation Outcomes

Aims Plummer-Vincent syndrome (PVS) is a rare condition, defined by the association of dysphagia, iron deficiency anemia and a post-cricoid esophageal web. It is considered as a precancerous condition. Although correcting the anemia may improve these symptoms, endoscopic dilation of the esophageal web is sometimes necessary. The goal of our work is to study the clinical, endoscopic, therapeutic and evolutionary characteristics of this condition.

Methods We retrospectively collected charts of patients treated for a Plummer Vinson syndrome in our department from January 2006 until July 2020.

Results Our study included 9 patients: 8 women and one man. The average age was 51.4 years (37-60 years). All patients had progressively worsening high dysphagia. A clinical anemic syndrome was noted in 7 cases. Biologically, iron deficiency anemia was found in all patients. Upper endoscopy found an obstructive cervical esophageal web wich was circumferential in 6 cases and non-circumferential in 3 cases. All patients underwent endoscopic dilation with Savary-Gilliard dilators, and iron supplementation. No severe complication has been noted. A duodenal biopsy was performed routinely in all patients allowing the diagnosis of associated celiac disease in two patients. Dysphagia, anemia, and cervical oesophageal diaphragm recurred in one patient requiring a second endoscopic dilation, 32 months after the first dilation. A squamous cell carcinoma was diagnosed 7 years after the first dilation in one patient who was lost to follow-up.

Conclusions Plummer Vinson syndrome is a rare condition, it usually affects women. Treatment is based on endoscopic dilation in conjunction with iron supplementation, with an excellent outcome in most symptomatic patients. Close endoscopic monitoring is necessary as the disease is a risk factor for subsequent malignancy. Therefore, it is important to educate patients about the importance of surveillance.

Citation: Bradai S, Mahmoudi M, Khsiba A et al. eP58 PLUMMER-VINSON SYNDROME: EPIDEMIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND ENDOSCOPIC DILATION OUTCOMES. Endoscopy 2021; 53: S115.

Publication History

Article published online:
19 March 2021