Pellagra — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 6315)

The VA rates Pellagra under Diagnostic Code 6315 at the following tiers: 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.

Diagnostic Code 6315 is the VA rating identifier for Pellagra within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.88b. 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 Pellagra under DC 6315 is 100%. This tier requires: Marked mental changes, moist dermatitis, inability to retain adequate nourishment, exhaustion, and cachexia. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Pellagra alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Pellagra is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.88b, Diagnostic Code 6315. 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 Pellagra 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 Pellagra 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.