D50.1

Clinical Causes: Chronic iron deficiency due to poor dietary intake Malabsorption of iron in the gastrointestinal tract Blood loss from gastrointestinal lesions or heavy menstruation Certain genetic factors affecting iron metabolism Other underlying medical conditions that cause anemia

Key Symptoms: Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), especially solids Sensation of food sticking in the throat or chest Glossitis, or inflammation of the tongue, leading to soreness and redness Fatigue and weakness due to anemia Brittle nails and hair loss Paleness of skin and mucous membranes Angular stomatitis, or cracks at the corners of the mouth

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests to measure iron levels and hemoglobin, and endoscopic procedures. Endoscopy can reveal the presence of esophageal webs, which are thin membrane formations that cause narrowing of the esophagus. Bone marrow biopsies and other tests may be performed to identify the extent of anemia and rule out other underlying causes.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment focuses on correcting iron deficiency through oral or intravenous iron supplements. Addressing the iron deficiency often alleviates dysphagia and related symptoms. In some cases, procedures like esophageal dilation are performed to eliminate webs that cause swallowing difficulties. Long-term follow-up is important to monitor iron levels, prevent recurrence, and screen for any potential malignancies. Nutritional counseling can also help improve dietary intake of iron and other essential nutrients.