Plummer-Vinson syndrome
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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The Plummer-Vinson syndrome is characterized by atrophy of the oral mucosa, pharynx and esophagus and is manifested by a number of systemic signs: swallowing disorder, dysphagia, burning sensation in the tongue, functional spasm of the esophagus and cardia, superficial glossitis, atrophy of the oral, pharyngeal, esophagus and stomach mucosa , cracks in the corners of the mouth, nail dystrophy, seborrheic face dermatitis, blepharitis, conjunctivitis, keratitis with vascularization of the cornea, dizziness, chronic gastritis, porphinuria.
[Diagnosis of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome
The diagnosis is based on the characteristics listed above. When radiography reveals the phenomenon of "esophageal membranes", consisting in a unique image on the anterior wall of the esophagus opposite the cricoid cartilage. When esophagoscopy in the indicated area, hyperkeratosis of the mucosa in the form of keratinized plates is revealed.
Characteristic changes in blood: hypochromic anemia, poikilo-, aniso-, micro- and planocytosis, rarely hyperchromic anemia, low iron content in the blood serum, achlorhydria. It is observed almost exclusively in women.
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Treatment of Plummer-Vinson Syndrome
The treatment of the Plummer-Vinson syndrome in the initial stages of the disease can lead to a temporary improvement in the general condition and prolonged remissions. At the expressed clinical forms treatment from Plummer - Vinson's syndrome is practically excluded. Treatment consists in the appointment of riboflavin, lactoflavin, vitamin B6, iron-containing drugs and agents that replace and normalize the secretory function of the stomach. The diet should be rich in proteins and vitamin B6 (milk and sour-milk products, liver, eggs, meat, brewer's yeast, fruits, vegetables, rye bread).
The Plummer-Vinson syndrome has a dubious prognosis.