Plummer-Vinson syndrome in a 10-year-old boy from Côte d'Ivoire: An exceptional paediatric case with African context.

Abstract

Plummer-Vinson syndrome (PVS) is characterised by the triad of dysphagia, iron-deficiency anaemia, and proximal oesophageal webs. While well described in adults, paediatric cases remain exceptionally rare, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. We report a 10-year-old boy from Côte d'Ivoire, presenting with progressive dysphagia of 3 years' duration and severe iron-deficiency anaemia (haemoglobin 6.0 g/dL) with neither haemoglobinopathy nor ova or parasites. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy demonstrated a semi-circumferential post-cricoid oesophageal web; with normal surrounding mucosa and histology. Endoscopic balloon dilation combined with weight-based oral iron supplementation co-administered with ascorbic acid resulted in complete clinical and haematological recovery, sustained at 1-year follow-up. This case underscores the importance of recognising iron-deficiency anaemia associated with dysphagia in children. Combined endoscopic dilation and appropriately dosed iron supplementation with ascorbic acid are effective. Increased awareness and access to endoscopic evaluation are essential to ensure timely diagnosis and effective management in low-resource African settings.