Plummer-Vinson syndrome: narrative review on dental care and oral changes

Abstract

Objective: To approach Plummer-Vinson Syndrome (PVS) and to review the possible oral alterations that patients with this syndrome can manifest, as well as to approach dental conducts in front of these patients. Bibliographic review: PVS is a rare condition, characterized by a set of changes in the body that can lead to the development of health problems in the esophageal tract: dysphagia, iron deficiency anemia and esophageal webs. Individuals with PVS are at increased risk for developing pharyngeal and esophageal carcinomas, which may also involve the mouth. Ulcers, mucosal pallor, tongue pigmentation, glossitis, depapilation, trismus, among others, are oral alterations that may be observed. Thus, knowing the characteristics related to the oral clinical aspect of this syndrome is important for the dentist as a key in the treatment, prevention and attenuation of the discomforts associated with PVS. Final considerations: It is important that health professionals are aware of the changes caused by PVS, so that they can perform early diagnoses or refer to a more qualified professional. Careful coordination of systemic and oral care must be in dialogue between the physician and the dentist, which is necessary at each stage of managing the disease process to ensure good patient outcomes.