Violaceous papules on the palms and soles

J Cutan Med Surg. 2008 Jan-Feb;12(1):35-7. doi: 10.2310/7750.2008.07024.

Abstract

Background: Lichen planus (LP) is a condition with many clinical variants that can be quite varied in their presentation.

Objective: We report a case of a 60-year-old woman who presented with a very unusual palmoplantar eruption characterized by violaceous pustule-like papules that was subsequently diagnosed as LP.

Methods: The above case is reported, along with biopsy results. The patient was subsequently treated with a combination of topical corticosteroids and oral acitretin, and her clinical course was followed.

Results: The eruption responded dramatically to our combination treatment and resolved by the 2-month follow-up.

Conclusion: Palmoplantar LP is a rare variant of LP that bears little resemblance to its classic LP. This condition responds well to a combination of potent topical corticosteroids and oral acitretin.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acitretin / therapeutic use
  • Biopsy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Hand Dermatoses / diagnosis*
  • Hand Dermatoses / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Keratolytic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Lichen Planus / diagnosis*
  • Lichen Planus / drug therapy
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Glucocorticoids
  • Keratolytic Agents
  • Acitretin