Papulosquamous disorders mnemonic

The 5 Ps of lichen planus

The mnemonic

5 Ps

What each word stands for

  • PurpleViolaceous colour
  • PolygonalAngular shape
  • PruriticItchy
  • PlanarFlat-topped
  • PapulesPrimary lesion, which may coalesce to plaques

Why it matters clinically

Describes the classic lesion and helps pick it from other papulosquamous disorders.

Where it stops being reliable

Does not include Wickham's striae, nail or mucosal changes.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Papulosquamous disorders mnemonic?

5 Ps. It helps you recall: The 5 Ps of lichen planus.

What does "Purple" stand for?

Violaceous colour

What does "Polygonal" stand for?

Angular shape

What does "Pruritic" stand for?

Itchy

What are all the parts of the 5 Ps mnemonic?

Purple: Violaceous colour; Polygonal: Angular shape; Pruritic: Itchy; Planar: Flat-topped; Papules: Primary lesion, which may coalesce to plaques.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Papulosquamous disorders in Dermatology.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Does not include Wickham's striae, nail or mucosal changes.

How is this useful clinically?

Describes the classic lesion and helps pick it from other papulosquamous disorders.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Dermatology question about Papulosquamous disorders.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.