A Case of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome

The combination of symptomatic hypopharyngeal webs and iron-deficiency anemia in middle-aged women constitutes Plummer-Vinson syndrome. It is uncommon but important syndrome because of inceased risk of squamous cell carcinoma of the pharynx and esophagus. The cause of this syndrome is still not clear. A small sized web is treated by correction of anemia, but a large sized one with dysphagia is treated by breakage of web. Recently, we experienced a 41-year-old woman with Plummer-Vinson syndrome. She complained of dysphagia for 10 years. Esophagogram and endoscopic examination showed a hypopharyngeal web and peripheral blood profile was compatible with iron-deficiency anemia. Her symptom improved after endoscopic balloon dilatation of the upper esophageal web.