Plummer-Vinson Syndrome Revealing Gastric Tumor: A Case of a Very Rare Association

Abderrahmane Jallouli*, Nidale Laghfiri, Mouna El Bouatmani, Oussama Nacir, Fatimaezzahra Lairani, Adil Ait Errami, Sofia Oubaha, Zouhour Samlani and Khadija Krati

Background: Plummer-Vinson Syndrome (PVS) is a rare clinical entity defined by the triad of dysphagia, iron deficiency anemia, and esophageal webs. While commonly associated with upper aerodigestive tract malignancies, its link with gastric tumors is exceptionally rare.

Case presentation: We report a case of a 66-year-old male with PVS who was ultimately diagnosed with gastric adenocarcinoma. The patient presented with progressive solid food dysphagia, iron deficiency anemia, and significant weight loss. Endoscopic evaluation revealed a cervical esophageal web and, following dilation, an ulcerated gastric mass. Histopathological examination confirmed moderately differentiated gastric adenocarcinoma. The patient underwent total gastrectomy followed by chemotherapy with favorable early outcomes.

Discussion: This case illustrates a rare but important association between PVS and gastric cancer. Chronic iron deficiency may play a role in carcinogenesis via oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways. Literature review supports a potential pathophysiological link, though epidemiological data remains limited.

Conclusion: Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for gastrointestinal malignancies in patients with PVS, particularly when symptoms are persistent or atypical. Early endoscopic evaluation and thorough investigation are warranted to exclude underlying cancer.

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Published on: Apr 22, 2025 Pages: 12-14

Full Text PDF Full Text HTML DOI: 10.17352/2455-2283.000128
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