Scarring alopecia

The VA rates Scarring alopecia under Diagnostic Code 7830 at 0%, 10%, 20%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Affecting less than 20 percent of the scalp. The maximum 20% rating requires: Affecting more than 40 percent of the scalp.

The VA rates Scarring alopecia under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7830, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.118. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.

A 0% rating requires: Affecting less than 20 percent of the scalp. A 20% rating requires: Affecting more than 40 percent of the scalp. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.

Scarring alopecia maxes at 20%, well below the single-disability TDIU threshold. However, combined with other service-connected disabilities, TDIU may be achievable under 38 CFR § 4.16. Focus on establishing secondary conditions to increase the combined rating.

The key evidence for Scarring alopecia is documentation of how the condition affects daily functioning. Treatment records showing worsening symptoms, functional limitations documented by your provider, and buddy statements describing observable impact on daily life all strengthen the claim. A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional linking the current severity to service is essential for contested claims.

The C&P examiner uses a Skin Conditions DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 7830 rating criteria. The examiner documents symptom frequency, severity, and functional impact. Bring all treatment records and describe your worst days, not your best — the VA rates on the full clinical picture across time, not a snapshot of one good day.