Alopecia areata — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7831)

The VA rates Alopecia areata under Diagnostic Code 7831 at the following tiers: 0%, 10%. The minimum 0% rating requires: With loss of hair limited to scalp and face. The maximum 10% rating requires: With loss of all body hair.

Diagnostic Code 7831 is the VA rating identifier for Alopecia areata within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.118. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Alopecia areata under DC 7831 is 10%. This tier requires: With loss of all body hair. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Alopecia areata alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Alopecia areata is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.118, Diagnostic Code 7831. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Alopecia areata may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Alopecia areata requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.