A skin disorder of the vulva, or external female genitalia. The skin surface of the vulva becomes thin, wrinkled, and papery and red or purple in appearance. The affected area can include the skin at the top of the thighs, the inner buttocks, under the arms, beneath the breasts, on the neck, on the back, and on the arms. The chief symptom is intense itching. Lichen sclerosus may develop into cancer, and a biopsy of affected skin is recommended for precise diagnosis. Treatment focuses on management of the itching, usually with creams containing corticosteroids. Ointments containing testosterone are also used.