Erythroderma
Erythroderma is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.118, Diagnostic Code 7817, from 0% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: Generalized involvement of the skin with systemic manifestations (such as fever, weight loss, or hypoproteinemia) AND one of the following. Most claims establish the 0% or 10% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 7817 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 100%
- Rating tiers
- 5
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.118
- Body system
- Skin Conditions
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
Full schedular disability
0%, 10%, 30%, 60%, 100%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Erythroderma?
Any extent of involvement of the skin, and no more than topical therapy required over the past 12-month period
Any extent of involvement of the skin, and any of the following therapies required for a total duration of less than 6 weeks over the past 12-month period: systemic therapy such as therapeutic doses of corticosteroids, other immunosuppressive drugs, retinoids, PUVA, UVB treatments, biologics, or electron beam therapy
Any extent of involvement of the skin, and any of the following therapies required for a total duration of 6 weeks or more, but not constantly, over the past 12-month period: systemic therapy such as therapeutic doses of corticosteroids, other immunosuppressive drugs, retinoids, PUVA, UVB treatments, biologics, or electron beam therapy
No current treatment due to a documented history of treatment failure with 1 treatment regimen
Generalized involvement of the skin with systemic manifestations (such as fever, weight loss, or hypoproteinemia) AND one of the following
“Any extent of involvement of the skin, and any of the following therapies required for a total duration of 6 weeks or more, but not constantly, over the past 12-month period: systemic therapy such as therapeutic doses of corticosteroids, other immunosuppressive drugs, retinoids, PUVA, UVB treatments, biologics, or electron beam therapy”
Common Questions About Erythroderma VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Erythroderma?
The VA rates Erythroderma under Diagnostic Code 7817 at 0%, 10%, 30%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Any extent of involvement of the skin, and no more than topical therapy required over the past 12-month period. The maximum 100% rating requires: Generalized involvement of the skin with systemic manifestations (such as fever, weight loss, or hypoproteinemia) AND one of the following.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Erythroderma?
The VA rates Erythroderma under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7817, 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 0% and a 100% rating for Erythroderma?
A 0% rating requires: Any extent of involvement of the skin, and no more than topical therapy required over the past 12-month period. A 100% rating requires: Generalized involvement of the skin with systemic manifestations (such as fever, weight loss, or hypoproteinemia) AND one of the following. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Erythroderma qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Erythroderma 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 Erythroderma?
Service connection for Erythroderma 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 Erythroderma?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Erythroderma 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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