Chloracne
Chloracne is an acne-like eruption of blackheads, cysts, and pustules caused by exposure to certain chemical compounds such as chlorinated dioxins and dibenzofurans. It is rated under Diagnostic Code 7829. Chloracne is a presumptive condition for veterans exposed to Agent Orange, meaning it does not require proof of a direct service connection if diagnosed within one year of last possible herbicide exposure and the condition was at least 10% disabling within that time. Ratings are based on the severity and location of the deep acne.
VA Rating Levels
Moderate chloracne.
Deep acne (deep inflamed nodules and pus-filled cysts) affecting less than 40% of the face and neck, or deep acne affecting non-intertriginous areas of the body other than the face and neck.
Deep acne affecting intertriginous areas such as the armpits, anogenital region, skin folds of the breasts, or between fingers and toes.
Deep acne affecting 40% or more of the face and neck.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Chloracne is one of the earliest recognized presumptive conditions for Agent Orange exposure. If you served in Vietnam or other areas with herbicide use, this may apply.
- →To qualify for presumptive service connection, chloracne must have been diagnosed within one year of last possible Agent Orange exposure at a severity of at least 10%.
- →If chloracne causes facial scarring, evaluate whether a separate or alternative rating under the disfigurement schedule (DC 7800) might yield a higher rating.
- →Unlike regular acne, chloracne has a 20% tier for intertriginous areas (skin folds, armpits, groin).
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR $ 4.118, Diagnostic Code 7829