National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) Practice Test 2025 - Free Chiropractic Practice Questions and Study Guide

Lichen planus is a skin disease characterized by itchy, flat-topped, purple lesions that can affect various areas of the body, particularly the palms, soles, and mucous membranes. This condition often manifests in distinct ways, including oral lichen planus, which affects the mucous membranes inside the mouth, and can also occur on the skin, typically in areas prone to friction.

The specific involvement of the palms and soles, as well as the mucous membranes, distinguishes lichen planus from other skin diseases. For example, psoriasis might also affect the palms and soles but usually presents as raised, scaly plaques rather than the flat-topped lesions seen in lichen planus. Eczema commonly affects flexural areas and doesn't typically target the palms and soles as primary sites. Skin cancer can occur anywhere on the body and is not limited to the areas specified. Therefore, lichen planus is the most fitting answer due to its specific presentation and affected areas.