Eczema / Dermatitis
Eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis are rated under 38 CFR § 4.118, Diagnostic Code 7806. The primary VA rating criterion is the percentage of body surface area (BSA) affected and whether systemic therapy is required.
VA Rating Levels
At least 5% but less than 20% of the entire body, or at least 5% but less than 20% of exposed areas — or; intermittent systemic therapy (corticosteroids or immunosuppressives) required during the past 12 months.
20–40% of entire body or 20–40% of exposed areas affected; or systemic therapy (oral corticosteroids or immunosuppressives) required more than 6 weeks during the past 12 months.
More than 40% of the entire body or more than 40% of exposed areas; or constant or near-constant systemic therapy required during the past 12 months.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Exposure to chemicals, burn pits, or toxic substances in service can be a nexus for skin conditions
- →Document the percentage of body covered and all medications/treatments used
- →Stress from service-connected PTSD can trigger or aggravate skin conditions — consider a secondary claim
- →Chloracne from Agent Orange dioxin exposure is separately ratable
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR § 4.118, Diagnostic Code 7806