Chloracne — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7829)

The VA rates Chloracne under Diagnostic Code 7829 at the following tiers: 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Superficial acne (comedones, papules, pustules) of any extent. The maximum 30% rating requires: Deep acne (deep inflamed nodules and pus-filled cysts) affecting 40 percent or more of the face and neck.

Diagnostic Code 7829 is the VA rating identifier for Chloracne 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 Chloracne under DC 7829 is 30%. This tier requires: Deep acne (deep inflamed nodules and pus-filled cysts) affecting 40 percent or more of the face and neck. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Chloracne alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Chloracne is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.118, Diagnostic Code 7829. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Conditions commonly secondary to Chloracne include: Major Depressive Disorder (Disfigurement). Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by a service-connected disability are ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Medical nexus evidence linking the primary and secondary condition is required.

Service connection for Chloracne 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.