Colitis, ulcerative
Colitis, ulcerative is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.114, Diagnostic Code 7323, from 0% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: Ulcerative colitis, marked with severe constitutional symptoms: Requiring colectomy; or with constant, debilitating symptoms and severe malnutrition; profound anemia (hemoglobin < 7 g/dL); weight loss > 20%; or active disease requiring continuous high-dose corticosteroids/biologics with inability to maintain nutrition.. Most claims establish the 0% or 10% rating before reaching the top tier.
What are the VA rating criteria for Colitis, ulcerative?
Rate as Crohn's disease or undifferentiated form of inflammatory bowel disease (DC 7326).
Note: Cross-reference — see referenced criteria for rating tiers
Ulcerative colitis, mild: Remission with occasional exacerbations; diarrhea less than 3 times daily; minimal rectal bleeding; maintained body weight and hemoglobin.
Ulcerative colitis, moderate: Four to six stools per day with blood; anemia; impairment of health with weight loss; or with systemic manifestations (arthritis, uveitis, skin lesions); requires regular use of corticosteroids or immunosuppressants.
Ulcerative colitis, severe: Six or more stools per day with blood; with significant anemia (hemoglobin < 10 g/dL); with significant weight loss (10% or more of body weight); with frequent hospitalizations; or with complications (abscess, fistula, perforation).
Ulcerative colitis, marked with severe constitutional symptoms: Requiring colectomy; or with constant, debilitating symptoms and severe malnutrition; profound anemia (hemoglobin < 7 g/dL); weight loss > 20%; or active disease requiring continuous high-dose corticosteroids/biologics with inability to maintain nutrition.
“Ulcerative colitis, moderate: Four to six stools per day with blood; anemia; impairment of health with weight loss; or with systemic manifestations (arthritis, uveitis, skin lesions); requires regular use of corticosteroids or immunosuppressants.”
Common Questions About Colitis, ulcerative VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Colitis, ulcerative?
The VA rates Colitis, ulcerative under Diagnostic Code 7323 at 0%, 10%, 30%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Rate as Crohn's disease or undifferentiated form of inflammatory bowel disease (DC 7326).. The maximum 100% rating requires: Ulcerative colitis, marked with severe constitutional symptoms: Requiring colectomy; or with constant, debilitating symptoms and severe malnutrition; profound anemia (hemoglobin < 7 g/dL); weight loss > 20%; or active disease requiring continuous high-dose corticosteroids/biologics with inability to maintain nutrition..
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Colitis, ulcerative?
The VA rates Colitis, ulcerative under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7323, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.114. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 0% and a 100% rating for Colitis, ulcerative?
A 0% rating requires: Rate as Crohn's disease or undifferentiated form of inflammatory bowel disease (DC 7326).. A 100% rating requires: Ulcerative colitis, marked with severe constitutional symptoms: Requiring colectomy; or with constant, debilitating symptoms and severe malnutrition; profound anemia (hemoglobin < 7 g/dL); weight loss > 20%; or active disease requiring continuous high-dose corticosteroids/biologics with inability to maintain nutrition.. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Colitis, ulcerative qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Colitis, ulcerative 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 Colitis, ulcerative?
Service connection for Colitis, ulcerative 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 Colitis, ulcerative?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Colitis, ulcerative 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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