- At least six different spells have had this name or effect. Close versions have been combined into single spells; see also improved chill touch and improved vampiric touch, which are from the RAVENLOFT setting. - Wizard's Spell Compendium Vol 2
By means of this spell the necromancer gains both the chilling touch of the lich and invulnerability to several lichlike attacks and effects. The caster is immune to all forms of paralysis and fear, including those generated by liches, for the duration of the spell. When the lich touch is in operation, the hands of the caster glow with an unearthly greenish brilliance.
The caster can touch individuals and affect them as a lich would, inflicting both 1d10 points of damage and paralysis. A saving throw vs. paralysis is allowed, but the individual takes the damage even if not paralyzed. Undead beings and creatures not affected by paralysis are not affected by the touch and do not take damage. Those paralyzed by this spell remain so for 2d4 hours or until the paralysis is countered by a dispel magic, remove paralysis, or similar magic. The spell cannot be ended before its duration expires. The caster affects everyone he touches with the lich touch.
The material components of this spell are a drop of the caster's blood and a scrap of rotting meat or fish.
Notes: This standard form of the spell originated in the Forgotten Realms setting. It is uncommon for necromancers; otherwise very rare. It is known to be in the lich Kyristan's tome, Studies in Death.