What is an iron deficiency lump in the throat? Understanding the Causes

October 1, 2025 •

4 min read

Plummer-Vinson syndrome, a rare condition linked to chronic iron deficiency anemia, is characterized by the formation of esophageal webs that can cause difficulty swallowing. This often manifests as the sensation of what is an iron deficiency lump in the throat? and is accompanied by other tell-tale symptoms.

Quick Summary

An iron deficiency lump in the throat is typically the dysphagia caused by esophageal webs in Plummer-Vinson syndrome or is a globus sensation linked to low iron levels. Both conditions can often be managed by addressing the underlying iron deficiency and treating any physical obstructions.

Key Points

Plummer-Vinson Syndrome (PVS): A rare condition causing an 'iron deficiency lump in the throat,' characterized by iron-deficiency anemia, dysphagia, and esophageal webs.
Esophageal Webs: Thin, web-like tissue growths that form in the upper esophagus, causing the swallowing difficulty known as dysphagia.
Globus Sensation: A feeling of a lump in the throat without a physical obstruction, which can also be associated with iron deficiency.
Symptoms of PVS: In addition to swallowing issues, signs of iron-deficiency anemia like fatigue, pale skin, sore tongue, and brittle nails may be present.
Diagnosis: Involves confirming iron-deficiency anemia and visualizing esophageal webs through tests like a barium swallow or endoscopy.
Treatment: Primary treatment involves iron supplementation. If swallowing issues persist, esophageal dilation may be performed to stretch the web.
Cancer Risk: PVS carries an increased risk of esophageal and pharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, necessitating long-term medical monitoring.

What is an iron deficiency lump in the throat? Exploring Plummer-Vinson Syndrome

The phrase 'iron deficiency lump in the throat' refers to a medical condition known as Plummer-Vinson syndrome (PVS), or sideropenic dysphagia. PVS is an extremely rare disorder defined by a classic triad of symptoms: iron-deficiency anemia, esophageal webs, and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). The sensation of a lump or a mass in the throat is the result of thin, web-like membranes of tissue forming in the upper part of the esophagus. While PVS has become much rarer in developed countries due to improved nutrition, it is still a relevant concern for individuals with chronic iron deficiency.

The mechanism of esophageal web formation

The exact cause of PVS is not fully understood, but experts believe that chronic, severe iron deficiency plays a central role. One theory suggests that a lack of iron-dependent oxidative enzymes can cause the gradual degradation and atrophy of the esophageal and pharyngeal mucosa. Over time, this mucosal degeneration, combined with the trauma of swallowing, leads to the formation of the thin webs. Other contributing factors may include genetic predisposition and autoimmune processes, as PVS is sometimes associated with autoimmune disorders like celiac disease or rheumatoid arthritis.

Globus Sensation vs. Plummer-Vinson Syndrome

It is important to distinguish the dysphagia caused by PVS from a similar but separate condition known as globus sensation. While both can cause a "lump in the throat" feeling, their underlying mechanisms and symptoms differ significantly. Globus sensation is the persistent or intermittent feeling of a lump, pressure, or tightness in the throat that is not associated with difficulty swallowing or any physical obstruction. Studies have shown that iron deficiency, even in the absence of full-blown anemia, can contribute to globus sensation through its effects on nerve endings and neuromuscular function.

Comparing PVS and Globus Sensation


Feature	Plummer-Vinson Syndrome (PVS)	Globus Sensation
Underlying Cause	Chronic, severe iron-deficiency anemia leading to esophageal webs.	Can be linked to iron deficiency, though also associated with stress, GERD, and other factors.
Sensation	A feeling of food getting stuck while swallowing (dysphagia).	A persistent feeling of a lump or fullness in the throat, but no actual swallowing difficulty.
Physical Obstruction	Yes: Thin, web-like tissue growths in the upper esophagus.	No: A sensation only, with no physical blockage.
Additional Symptoms	Weakness, fatigue, glossitis (sore tongue), angular cheilitis (cracks at mouth corners), brittle nails.	Can be accompanied by other sensory symptoms or anxiety.
Treatment Response	Iron supplementation, sometimes with esophageal dilation.	Iron supplementation if deficiency is identified; may also involve stress management and treating other potential causes.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The lump sensation associated with PVS is more accurately described as dysphagia. Patients with PVS experience difficulty or pain when swallowing, particularly solid foods. This can be accompanied by a variety of other signs of iron-deficiency anemia, including:

Chronic fatigue and weakness
Pallor (pale skin)
Glossitis (a smooth, red, and swollen tongue)
Angular cheilitis (cracks at the corners of the mouth)
Koilonychia (spoon-shaped, brittle fingernails)

Diagnosing PVS involves a medical evaluation to confirm iron-deficiency anemia and to identify the esophageal webs. A healthcare provider may perform one or more of the following tests:

Blood tests: To check for iron deficiency and anemia.
Barium swallow study: An imaging test where the patient swallows a contrast agent to reveal the esophageal web.
Upper endoscopy: A procedure where a thin, flexible tube is inserted to visually inspect and confirm the presence of esophageal webs.

Treatment and Outlook

The primary treatment for PVS is to correct the iron deficiency. This can often resolve the swallowing issues, though the effectiveness depends on the severity and duration of the condition.

Iron Supplementation: Oral iron tablets are the first line of treatment. In severe cases or for individuals who cannot tolerate oral supplements, intravenous iron infusions may be necessary.
Esophageal Dilation: If swallowing difficulties persist after iron therapy, a non-invasive endoscopic procedure called esophageal dilation may be performed. This involves using a balloon or dilator to gently stretch the esophagus and break the web.

The prognosis for PVS is generally excellent with appropriate treatment. However, a crucial aspect of management is long-term monitoring due to the increased risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma of the pharynx and esophagus. Patients should have regular follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to screen for any signs of malignancy. Early diagnosis and treatment, particularly of the underlying iron deficiency, may help reduce this risk.

Conclusion

An iron deficiency lump in the throat is not a literal lump but the sensation of difficulty swallowing caused by Plummer-Vinson syndrome, a rare condition linked to chronic iron-deficiency anemia. It is characterized by esophageal webs that narrow the food pipe and can be accompanied by other anemia symptoms. While other conditions like globus sensation can also be associated with iron deficiency, PVS is specifically related to physical webs. The condition is highly treatable with iron replacement and, if necessary, esophageal dilation, but long-term monitoring is essential due to the associated risk of certain cancers. If you experience persistent difficulty swallowing or a lump sensation in your throat, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Learn more about Plummer-Vinson syndrome from the Cleveland Clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

This sensation is clinically known as dysphagia and feels like food is getting stuck in the throat or chest when swallowing. In Plummer-Vinson syndrome, this is caused by a physical obstruction from an esophageal web.

Yes. A feeling of a lump or tightness in the throat, known as globus sensation, can be linked to iron deficiency even without the presence of an esophageal web. This is thought to be related to iron's role in neuromuscular function.

The main treatment for Plummer-Vinson syndrome is iron supplementation, either orally or intravenously, to correct the underlying iron-deficiency anemia. Addressing the deficiency often resolves the swallowing problems.

Esophageal dilation is a procedure performed during an endoscopy to stretch or rupture the esophageal web that causes the swallowing obstruction in PVS. It is used if iron supplementation alone does not fully resolve the dysphagia.

PVS is associated with an increased risk of developing esophageal and pharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. While highly treatable, the malignant potential necessitates long-term follow-up and monitoring by a healthcare provider.

No, Plummer-Vinson syndrome is extremely rare, especially in developed countries where nutrition has improved and iron deficiency is less widespread. Its prevalence has declined significantly over the past century.

Since the exact cause is not fully known, there is no guaranteed way to prevent PVS. However, maintaining adequate iron intake through diet or supplementation and treating any conditions causing iron deficiency anemia may help reduce the risk.

In addition to difficulty swallowing, PVS can present with other signs of anemia, including fatigue, weakness, a smooth and sore tongue (glossitis), and brittle or spoon-shaped fingernails (koilonychia).