Skin

DC 7820

Infections of the skin not listed elsewhere (including bacterial, fungal, viral, treponemal, and parasitic diseases).

Educational use only. Not legal or medical advice. Read 38 CFR §4.118 on eCFR
Diagnostic Code
7820
CFR Section
§4.118 — Skin
No rating criteria available for this code yet.

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.