Primary Cutaneous Vasculitis
Primary cutaneous vasculitis encompasses a group of disorders involving inflamed blood vessels in the skin, causing red or purple discoloration from bleeding under the skin. It is rated under Diagnostic Code 7826 based on the number of episodes per year and the need for systemic immunosuppressive medication. If caused by something like medications, infections, or cancers, it cannot be rated under this schedule. For rating purposes, an episode is defined as a period when symptoms became active, but it must be documented by a doctor visit to count.
VA Rating Levels
1 to 3 episodes per year requiring systemic immunosuppressive medications (steroids, cyclosporine, etc.) to control, or no episodes due to continuous systemic medication for control.
4 or more episodes per year requiring systemic immunosuppressive medications to control.
Episodes are regular and consistent and are not properly controlled by systemic immunosuppressive medications.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Episodes must be documented by a doctor visit to count toward your rating. If you experience a flare, make sure to see your provider and have it noted in your records.
- →If the vasculitis would rate higher under the disfigurement or scars schedule, the VA will use whichever schedule benefits you more.
- →This code only applies to primary cutaneous vasculitis. If the vasculitis is caused by medications, infections, or cancer, a different rating approach is used.
- →Track all episodes carefully and keep a symptom log with dates, descriptions, and doctor visits to support your claim.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR $ 4.118, Diagnostic Code 7826