Esophageal web

Esophageal webs are thin outpouchings of the anterior esophageal mucosa into the lumen and are located in the upper third of the esophagus. They cause dysphagia and confer an increased risk for squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus. If presenting with iron deficiency anemia with or without glossitis, Plummer-Vinson syndrome should be considered. A barium swallow is the best initial test. Long-term treatment is with endoscopic dilation. Repeated dilations may be needed for some patients, and are safe and effective.