Background: Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease commonly seen by dermatologists.Main observation: The current case describes palmoplantar lichen planus, a rare variant of this disease that can easily be misdiagnosed. This case describes a patient that presented with multiple papules on his hands and plantar feet that had previously been diagnosed as tinea manum and psoriasis. A biopsy from the patient, however, was diagnostic of lichen planus. The patient was subsequently treated successfully with topical clobetasol propionate 0.05% ointment applied twice daily.Conclusions: Palmoplantar lichen planus is a rare disease that can be easily misdiagnosed. This case report emphasizes the role of the biopsy when presented with such patients.