A case of palmoplantar lichen planus mimicking secondary syphilis

Ann Dermatol. 2009 Nov;21(4):429-31. doi: 10.5021/ad.2009.21.4.429. Epub 2009 Nov 30.

Abstract

Lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects skin, mucous membranes, hairs, and nails. According to the site of involvement, lichen planus can be subdivided into palmoplantar, mucosal, nail, or scalp types. Palmoplantar lichen planus is a rare subtype of lichen planus which may create difficulty in diagnosis, as the lesion is limited to the palms and soles. We report a case of a 37-year-old male with lichen planus who presented with multiple erythematous, scaly, hyperkeratotic papules on his palms and soles mimicking secondary syphilis.

Keywords: Palmoplantar lichen planus; Secondary syphilis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports