Pellagra
Pellagra is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.88b, Diagnostic Code 6315, from 10% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: Marked mental changes, moist dermatitis, inability to retain adequate nourishment, exhaustion, and cachexia. Most claims establish the 10% or 20% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 6315 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 100%
- Rating tiers
- 5
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.88b
- Body system
- Infectious Diseases
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
Full schedular disability
10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 100%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Pellagra?
Confirmed diagnosis with nonspecific symptoms such as: decreased appetite, weight loss, abdominal discomfort, weakness, inability to concentrate and irritability
With stomatitis, or achlorhydria, or diarrhea
With stomatitis, diarrhea, and symmetrical dermatitis
With all of the symptoms listed below, plus mental symptoms and impaired bodily vigor
Marked mental changes, moist dermatitis, inability to retain adequate nourishment, exhaustion, and cachexia
“With stomatitis, diarrhea, and symmetrical dermatitis”
Common Questions About Pellagra VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Pellagra?
The VA rates Pellagra under Diagnostic Code 6315 at 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Confirmed diagnosis with nonspecific symptoms such as: decreased appetite, weight loss, abdominal discomfort, weakness, inability to concentrate and irritability. The maximum 100% rating requires: Marked mental changes, moist dermatitis, inability to retain adequate nourishment, exhaustion, and cachexia.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Pellagra?
The VA rates Pellagra under Diagnostic Code (DC) 6315, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.88b. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 10% and a 100% rating for Pellagra?
A 10% rating requires: Confirmed diagnosis with nonspecific symptoms such as: decreased appetite, weight loss, abdominal discomfort, weakness, inability to concentrate and irritability. A 100% rating requires: Marked mental changes, moist dermatitis, inability to retain adequate nourishment, exhaustion, and cachexia. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Pellagra qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Pellagra 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 Pellagra?
Service connection for Pellagra 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 Pellagra?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Pellagra 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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