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Palmar lichen planus mimicking tinea nigra
Bhushan Madke1, Bhavana Doshi, Prasad Wankhede
1Department of Skin and VD, Topiwala National Medical College and BYL Nair Hospital, Mumbai, India.
Indian Journal of Dermatology
|October 2, 2013
Summary
This case report details an unusual presentation of lichen planus (LP) on the palms, mimicking a fungal infection. Histopathology confirmed LP, emphasizing its importance in diagnosing rare skin conditions.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition.
- LP typically affects flexural areas, wrists, legs, and mucous membranes.
- Unusual presentations can mimic other dermatological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of palmoplantar lichen planus.
- To highlight diagnostic challenges posed by unusual LP variants.
- To emphasize the role of histopathology in diagnosing atypical skin lesions.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a patient with asymptomatic black palmar patches.
- Dermatoscopic examination of the lesions.
- Histopathological analysis of lesional skin biopsy.
Main Results:
- Dermatoscopy revealed brownish pigmentation along dermatoglyphic ridges.
- Biopsy confirmed findings consistent with lichen planus.
- The patient's presentation mimicked Tinea nigra and allergic contact dermatitis.
Conclusions:
- Unusual variants of palmoplantar lichen planus can cause diagnostic confusion.
- Histopathology is crucial for accurate diagnosis of atypical skin lesions.
- This case underscores the diverse clinical manifestations of lichen planus.
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