Erythroderma — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7817)
The VA rates Erythroderma 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. Related conditions in the Skin body system share this rating framework.
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”
How does the VA rate Skin conditions?
Common Questions About Erythroderma VA Ratings
What is the VA disability rating for Erythroderma?
The VA rates Erythroderma under Diagnostic Code 7817 at the following tiers: 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.
What is Diagnostic Code 7817?
Diagnostic Code 7817 is the VA rating identifier for Erythroderma 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.
What is the highest rating for Erythroderma?
The highest schedular rating for Erythroderma under DC 7817 is 100%. This tier requires: Generalized involvement of the skin with systemic manifestations (such as fever, weight loss, or hypoproteinemia) AND one of the following. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Erythroderma alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What 38 CFR section governs Erythroderma ratings?
Erythroderma is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.118, Diagnostic Code 7817. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Erythroderma?
Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Erythroderma may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.
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 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.
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