Plummer - Vinson Syndrome in a 65 Year Old Male in Sokoto, North - Western Nigeria

Joshua Chukwuemeka Okoro, Sufiyanu Yabo Umar, Abdulmajid Usamatu

Abstract: Plummer - Vinson syndrome is a rare entity characterized by dysphagia, oesophageal web formation and iron deficiency anaemia. It is uncommon among black Africans and very rare in males. We present a case of Plummer - Vinson syndrome in a 65year old man with a 6 - year history of dysphagia to solids, progressive weight loss and body weakness. He was found to be cachectic, severely pale with presence of angular stomatitis, glossitis and koilonychias. Contrast oesophagogram (barium swallow) revealed multiple oesophageal webs which were confirmed by flexible fibre - optic upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Severe anaemia was corrected with multiple blood transfusions. He was subsequently treated with iron replacements and vitamin supplementations resulting in total resolution of symptoms. He remained in good health four months after treatment.

Keywords: Plummer - Vinson syndrome, Iron - deficiency anaemia, males, North Western Nigeria