Plummer Vinson Syndrome (PVS) with parotid gland squamous cell carcinoma in a young female

Plummer Vinson syndrome, also known as ‘Paterson Brown-Kelly’ syndrome is a syndrome associated with the triad of symptoms comprising microcytic hypochromic anaemia, oesophageal strictures and dysphagia. PVS (Plummer Vinson Syndrome) is commonly found in women of middle age especially in the fourth and fifth decade of life and is rarely reported in males and young females. Symptoms resulting from anaemia predominate the clinical picture, apart from additional features such as glossitis, angular cheilitis, and dysphagia. Dysphagia, however, is the main clinical feature of PVS. PVS carries an increased risk of development of squamous cell carcinoma of oesophagus and pharynx[1]. A classic case report of PVS associated with swelling of the salivary gland with clinical features, oral manifestations, malignant potential, differential diagnosis, investigation, and treatment is discussed here. This article carries the message that oral and pharyngeal manifestations should be considered to rule out malignancy in PVS, moreover, that PVS increases the risk factor of salivary gland squamous cell carcinoma. Early identification and diagnosis improves the prognosis and better chances of survival. We have to be familiar, therefore, with the oral manifestations of anaemia and be able to suspect PVS to aid in early diagnosis and prompt treatment. This case study was taken from Medcare hospital, Karimnagar, Telangana.