Skin

DC 7800

Burn scar(s) of the head, face, or neck; scar(s) of the head, face, or neck due to other causes; or other disfigurement of the head, face, or neck

Educational use only. Not legal or medical advice. Read 38 CFR §4.118 on eCFR
Diagnostic Code
7800
CFR Section
§4.118 — Skin

Rating Tiers

80%

With visible or palpable tissue loss and either gross distortion or asymmetry of three or more features or paired sets of features (nose, chin, forehead, eyes (including eyelids), ears (auricles), cheeks, lips), or; with six or more characteristics of disfigurement

50%

With visible or palpable tissue loss and either gross distortion or asymmetry of two features or paired sets of features (nose, chin, forehead, eyes (including eyelids), ears (auricles), cheeks, lips), or; with four or five characteristics of disfigurement

30%

With visible or palpable tissue loss and either gross distortion or asymmetry of one feature or paired set of features (nose, chin, forehead, eyes (including eyelids), ears (auricles), cheeks, lips), or; with two or three characteristics of disfigurement

10%

With one characteristic of disfigurement

What Raters Look For

Based on M21-1 adjudication criteria for Skin conditions. These are the factors a VA rater evaluates when assigning a rating percentage.

M21-1 III.iv.4.H
  • •Percentage of total body surface area (TBSA) affected — documented in dermatology notes
  • •Location: whether the affected area includes exposed skin (face, hands, etc.)
  • •Treatment required: topical only vs. systemic therapy (oral medications, biologics, phototherapy)
  • •Frequency of medical visits for treatment or flares
  • •Disfigurement — scarring, discoloration, or tissue loss visible on exam
  • •Impact on daily activities and occupational function
NoteSystemic therapy requirement is often the key factor that moves a rating from 30% to 60%. Documentation of oral or injectable medications is critical.