DC 7825Skin Conditions38 CFR § 4.118Last verified: APR 22, 2026

Chronic urticaria

Chronic urticaria is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.118, Diagnostic Code 7825, from 10% to 60% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 60% rating requires: Chronic refractory urticaria that requires third line treatment for control (e.g., plasmapheresis, immunotherapy, immunosuppressives) due to ineffectiveness with first and second line treatments. Most claims establish the 10% or 30% rating before reaching the top tier.

Rating schedule — DC 7825 at a glance

Minimum rating
10%

Lowest schedular rating available

Maximum rating
60%

TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%

Rating tiers
3

10%, 30%, 60%

CFR section
38 CFR § 4.118

Part 4 rating schedule

Body system
Skin Conditions
Secondary conditions
0

None mapped

What are the VA rating criteria for Chronic urticaria?

10%Disability Rating

Chronic urticaria that requires first line treatment (antihistamines) for control

30%Disability Rating

Chronic urticaria that requires second line treatment (e.g., corticosteroids, sympathomimetics, leukotriene inhibitors, neutrophil inhibitors, thyroid hormone) for control

60%Disability Rating

Chronic refractory urticaria that requires third line treatment for control (e.g., plasmapheresis, immunotherapy, immunosuppressives) due to ineffectiveness with first and second line treatments

Chronic urticaria that requires second line treatment (e.g., corticosteroids, sympathomimetics, leukotriene inhibitors, neutrophil inhibitors, thyroid hormone) for control

Common Questions About Chronic urticaria VA Ratings

What is the VA rating range for Chronic urticaria?

The VA rates Chronic urticaria under Diagnostic Code 7825 at 10%, 30%, 60%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Chronic urticaria that requires first line treatment (antihistamines) for control. The maximum 60% rating requires: Chronic refractory urticaria that requires third line treatment for control (e.g., plasmapheresis, immunotherapy, immunosuppressives) due to ineffectiveness with first and second line treatments.

Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Chronic urticaria?

The VA rates Chronic urticaria under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7825, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.118. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.

What is the difference between a 10% and a 60% rating for Chronic urticaria?

A 10% rating requires: Chronic urticaria that requires first line treatment (antihistamines) for control. A 60% rating requires: Chronic refractory urticaria that requires third line treatment for control (e.g., plasmapheresis, immunotherapy, immunosuppressives) due to ineffectiveness with first and second line treatments. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.

Can Chronic urticaria qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?

Veterans rated for Chronic urticaria may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.

What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Chronic urticaria?

Service connection for Chronic urticaria requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.

What is the C&P exam like for Chronic urticaria?

A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Chronic urticaria uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.

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