Plummer-Vinson syndrome

The answer is d. (Hardman, pp 1331-1333.) Iron-deficiency anemia usually occurs in infants undergoing rapid growth. In adults in a late stage, it may result in a bowel syndrome associated with gastritis and hypochlo-rhydria (Plummer-Vinson syndrome). Characteristically, all iron-deficiency anemias are associated with a hypochromic microcytic blood profile. Infestation with the tapeworm D. latum is accompanied by a hyperchromic macrocytic anemia, which is treatable with vitamin B12. Bleeding syndromes are treated with iron. 

Iron deficiency is also associated with epithelial atrophy. The epithelial cells of the pharynx are first affected the mucosa becomes reddish and infection often sets in, leading to dysphagia. This complex of symptoms is known as the Plummer-Vinson syndrome. The hair of iron-deficient patients becomes very fine and friable, and the nails break easily. The molecular mechanisms responsible for the alteration of the skin and hair of iron-deficient patients have not been elucidated. 

Plummer-Vinson syndrome Gastric achlorhydria Fragility of hair and nails... 

The Plummer-Vinson syndrome is an uncommon disease manifested by a combination of these proximal membranes with dysphagia, auto-immune disease and iron-deficiency anaemia. The syndrome is associated with an increased risk of carcinoma of the hypopharynx and upper GIT. 

Sixty percent of all malignant tumours of the oesophagus are squamous cell in origin. There is an association with nicotine, intake of hot and noxious beverages, achalasia, corrosive oesophagitis, and Plummer-Vinson syndrome. The incidence varies world wide, from 5 to 100 per 100,000 inhabitants. 

Plummer-Vinson (Paterson-Kelly) syndrome. Cancer, 19 470. 

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