Serum ferritin: A hidden gem for diagnosing plummer vinson syndrome

Abstract

Plummer-Vinson syndrome (PVS) is a triad of dysphagia, iron deficiency anemia and upper esophageal web. Early diagnosis with adequate treatment is necessary to prevent its malignant transformation. To represent different clinical pictures of PVS and to evaluate the treatment outcome and determine its prevalence. This is a descriptive study with study population of 267 patients with dysphagia and 40 had PVS. Post cricoid webs were dilated and post-operative iron correction was done. Patients are on regular follow up. Analysis showed highest incidence in females with dysphagia being the main presenting complaint in all the patients. All had iron deficiency and 90% of patients had post cricoid web. PVS is a precancerous condition. Serum ferritin should be the preferred parameter for diagnosing iron deficiency anemia. Regular follow up is warranted to prevent malignant progression.