Proposed Changes to the Ratings of the Skin are Now Open to Comments

On August 12th, 2016, the VA published their proposed changes to the ratings of the Skin (including Scars). This is the seventh set of changes that has been proposed as part of the VA’s complete rewrite of the VASRD which is supposed to be done by the end of 2016, but has been significantly delayed. Previously published changes include the Hemic and Lymphatic System, Mental Disorders, the Female Reproductive System, The Eyes, the Endocrine System, and Dental and Oral Conditions.

With each set of proposed changes, the VA allows a period in which comments can be submitted. The VA then takes each comment into consideration and makes any additional changes that are warranted before publishing the final ruling.

We encourage you to submit any comments you might have on these proposed changes to us either by commenting on this post or by contacting us through our website. All comments must be received by September 15th, 2016. We will then compile all of your comments into a single report and submit it on your behalf to the VA, just as we did for the Female Reproductive System. This is a great opportunity to really make a difference, so please let us know your thoughts.

The following are the VA’s proposed changes to the ratings for the Skin. The changes are fairly extensive, so I’ll walk through each, one at a time.

For each condition, the small, indented parts are the code as it is right now. Click on the code numbers to be taken to the discussion of that code on our site. After the current code, I’ll discuss the proposed changes.

First, a few changes to the overall system:

The first proposed change is to add a note that fully defines systemic vs topical therapies for the treatment of skin conditions. As it is currently, it is a bit confusing what treatments are considered which due to the fact that some topical treatments can cause systemic reactions. Thus, to make it clear, the proposed change defines them as follows:

    - Systemic therapy is any treatment that is injected, or taken by mouth, through the nose, or anally. This includes, but is not limited to, corticosteroids, phototherapy, retinoids, biologics, photochemotherapy, PUVA, and other immunosuppressive drugs.
            - Topical therapy is any treatment applied directly to the skin.

The VA reasons that these specifications allow for more fair ratings. If topical treatments of a very small skin area could qualify for a systemic rating, they would get an incredibly high rating for a fairly insignificant condition. On the other hand, in order for a topical treatment to cause systemic effects, it would have to be administered regularly over a very large area of the body. Because of this, a rating for the skin area alone would give a high enough rating to justify the severity of the condition.

The second proposed change is to create a Basic Rating System that would be used to rate a number of skin conditions (though not all). The idea is that these conditions have similar enough symptoms, treatments, and overall disabilities that a single rating system would effectively rate each condition. So here is the proposed system:

The Basic Rating System

If the condition covers more than 40% of total body or more than 40% of exposed divisions affected, or if it requires the constant or near-constant use of systemic therapy for 12 months, it is rated 60%.

If the condition covers 20 to 40% of total body or 20 to 40% of exposed divisions affected, or if it requires the use of systemic therapy for a total of 6 weeks or more every 12 months, it is rated 30%.

If the condition covers 5 to 20% of total body or 5 to 20% of exposed divisions affected, or if it requires the use of systemic therapy for a total of less than 6 weeks every 12 months, it is rated 10%.

If the condition covers less than 5% of total body or less than 5% of exposed divisions affected, or if it requires only topical medications every 12 months, it is rated 0%.

Note: The VA proposes changing the terminology of the VASRD from “during the past 12-month period” to “per 12-month period.” They say this change adds clarity, but in reality, it doesn’t. With this change, it isn’t clear whether or not that means the past 12 months, or any 12-month period during the past 20 years. For the purposes of this blog, I’ve interpreted it as “every 12 months”, but acknowledge that this probably isn’t really what they meant either since their discussions often still say “past 12 months.” This is a definite issue that they need to clearly clarify before publishing the final changes, and one that I will be addressing in the comments we submit. Just note that anytime in this blog that I say “every 12 months”, the real meaning is still to be determined. I think the most logical interpretation is still the “past 12 months,” but since they made a big to-do about changing it, I couldn’t just leave it as is.

Now on to the codes.
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Code 7800 for scars or disfigurement of the head, face, and neck remains exactly the same.
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I’m going to discuss the changes for codes 7801, 7802, and 7805 together. These codes are fairly extensive, so I’m not going to reproduce the current ones here. Click on the linked codes just listed to go the discussion of them on our site. Here are the proposed codes:

-Proposed- Scars of the Body

Scars of the body are any scars that are not found on the head, face, and neck.

Important! Each part of the body that is affected by a scar can be rated separately! Woo-hoo! For each kind of scar (deep, code 7801, superficial, code 7802, or other, code 7805), a single rating is given for each area of the body affected. These ratings are then combined using VA Math into a single overall scar rating assigned under the corresponding code. So if there are multiple scars or a single scar that affects more than one part of the body, then each is rated separately and then combined into a single overall rating for that kind of scar. For example, if a deep scar on the back is rated 30% and a deep scar on the stomach is rated 20%, the ratings would be combined using VA Math into a single 40% overall rating for deep scars.

If, however, a higher rating can be achieved by adding the measurements for all of the scars in all the areas of the body together, then this rating can be given instead. For example, if there is a single deep scar that measures 6 in2 but is divided between two areas (each 3 in2), then only a 0% would be given. But if the two areas are combined into 6 in2, then it would qualify for a 10% rating.

Below is a picture of the different areas of the body that can be rated separately. There are 6 areas in total, and they include the right arm, the left arm, the right leg, the left leg, the front of the torso, and the back of the torso. The front and back of the torso are separated by the midline on the side of the body. (The neck and head are rated under code 7800).




Time for the ratings:

Code 7801: Deep scars are considered “deep” if there is damage to the soft tissues under the skin. If the area of scarring in a single body part is 144 in2 or bigger, then it is rated 40%. If the area is between 72 in2 and 144 in2, it is rated 30%. If the area is between 12 in2 and 72 in2, then it is rated 20%. If it is between 6 in2 and 12 in2, it is rated 10%.

Code 7802: Superficial scars are ones that only affect the skin, not the soft tissues underneath. If the area of scarring in a single body part is 144 in2 or more, it is rated 10%. No other rating is given for superficial scars under this code.

Code 7805: All other scars are not ratable in and of themselves. If they cause another condition that makes it hard to properly do your job, then that other condition is rated. So, for example, if a linear scar running up the arm makes it impossible to fully bend or straighten the arm at the elbow, then it is rated under limited motion of the elbow. The final code will look like this: 7805-3400. The first four-digit code defines the condition as a linear scar, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

The biggest change for these codes is getting rid of the differentiation between linear and non-linear scars. Under the current codes, linear scars are pretty much not ratable, even if they are considered deep. The proposed changes, however, allow for linear scars to be rated the same as non-linear scars. So a deep linear scar that measures at least 6 in2 would qualify for a 10% rating instead of receiving nothing.

The only other change is to allow all the areas of the body to be combined and then rated (instead of rated separately and then combined) if it would provide a higher rating.
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Code 7804 for painful or unstable scars remains exactly the same.
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-Current- Code 7806: Dermatitis and eczema are essentially the same thing, although some doctors might describe them slightly different. For rating purposes, however, they are treated the same. Basically, dermatitis is a condition where the skin swells and turns red—the standard rash.

There are three different rating options for this condition. If the condition is so severe that it causes permanent scars, it can be rated as a scar condition under a scar code. The final code in that case would look like this: 7806-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as dermatitis, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

It can also be rated under this code either on calculations/estimations or on the required treatment of the condition itself.

Calculations/estimations: If there is more than 40% of total body or more than 40% of exposed divisions affected, it is rated 60%. If there is 20 to 40% of total body or 20 to 40% of exposed divisions affected, it is rated 30%. If there is 5 to 20% of total body or 5 to 20% of exposed divisions affected, it is rated 10%. If there is less than 5% of total body or less than 5% of exposed divisions affected, it is rated 0%.

Treatments: If the condition required the almost constant use of oral or injected medications to regulate the immune system over the past 12 months (methotrexate, steroids, etc.), it is rated 60%. If the condition required oral or injected medications to regulate the immune system for a total of 6 weeks or more during the past 12 months, it is rated 30%. If the condition required oral or injected medications to regulate the immune system for a total of less than 6 weeks over the past 12 months, it is rated 10%. If the condition only required topical (put on the outside of the skin) medications over the past 12 months, it is rated 0%.

-Proposed- Code 7806: Dermatitis and eczema are essentially the same thing, although some doctors might describe them slightly different. For rating purposes, however, they are treated the same. Basically, dermatitis is a condition where the skin swells and turns red—the standard rash.

This condition is rated on the Basic Rating System. If, however, the condition is so severe that it causes permanent scars, it can be rated as a scar condition under a scar code. The final code in that case would look like this: 7806-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as dermatitis, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

In reality, the proposed changes don’t change the ratings themselves for this code. The new Basic Rating System gives the same ratings it currently has.
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Code 7807 for New World (“American”) mucocutaneous leishmaniasis remains exactly the same.
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Code 7808 for Old World cutaneous leishmaniasis (“Oriental sore”) remains exactly the same.
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-Current- Code 7809: Lupus is a condition where the immune system attacks the healthy cells of the skin, causing severe sores, tearing, and scarring of the skin. Most often, these occur on the head near the ears, eyes, nose, lips and cheeks, but in some cases lupus sores can affect other areas of the body. Lupus is either rated as dermatitis or as scars/disfigurement, whichever best describes the disability. The final code will look like this: 7809-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as lupus, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

If the lupus affects parts of the body besides the skin, then it is rated under code 6350 for systematic lupus erythematosus. A rating cannot be given under both codes. Only one or the other.

-Proposed- Code 7809: Lupus is a condition where the immune system attacks the healthy cells of the skin, causing severe sores, tearing, and scarring of the skin. Most often, these occur on the head near the ears, eyes, nose, lips and cheeks, but in some cases lupus sores can affect other areas of the body.

This condition is rated on the Basic Rating System. If, however, the condition is so severe that it causes permanent scars, it can be rated as a scar condition under a scar code. The final code in that case would look like this: 7809-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as lupus, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

If the lupus affects parts of the body besides the skin, then it is rated under code 6350 for systematic lupus erythematosus. A rating cannot be given under both codes. Only one or the other.

Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus is rated under code 7821.

Again, the ratings for this code don’t change at all since the Basic Rating System is the dermatitis rating system and the scar option still applies.

The main change is to move the rating of subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus to code 7821. Right now, it is rated here, but based on more thorough and modern medical knowledge, the VA wants to move the rating of subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus to code 7821 because the condition is actually closer to collagen-vascular disease than this lupus.
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Code 7811 for tuberculosis luposa remains exactly the same.
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-Current- Code 7813: Dermatophytosis (“ringworm”) is a fungal infection that causes ring-shaped red and swollen patches on the skin. This condition is either rated under dermatitis, or scars/disfigurement whichever best describes the disability. The final code will look like this: 7813-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as dermatophytosis, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

-Proposed- Code 7813: Dermatophytosis (“ringworm”) is a fungal infection that causes ring-shaped red and swollen patches on the skin.

This condition is either rated under the Basic Rating System, or scars/disfigurement whichever best describes the disability. If rated on scars/disfigurement, the final code will look like this: 7813-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as dermatophytosis, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

Again, the ratings for this code don’t change at all since the Basic Rating System is the dermatitis rating system and the scar option still applies.

The VA does specify a few additional conditions that are rated under this code, namely onychomycosis and tinea versicolor, but these are forms of dermatophytosis and so are rated here already anyway. All of the various kinds of dermatophytosis are rated here.
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-Proposed- Code 7815: Bullous disorders cause blisters of clear liquid to form in between the layers of the skin, most often on the inner thighs and upper arms.

This condition is either rated under the Basic Rating System, or scars/disfigurement whichever best describes the disability. If rated on scars/disfigurement, the final code will look like this: 7815-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as a bullous disorder, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

If the condition causes symptoms that affect other parts of the body besides the skin, it can be rated separately. So if it affects the lungs, it can receive a second rating under the lung code that best describes the symptoms.

This code has only a minor change, so I didn’t reproduce the original here. The only significant change to this code is the ability to rate additional symptoms under separate codes. Currently, no ratings are given if the condition affects other areas of the body.
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-Proposed- Code 7816: Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that tells the body to produce more skin cells even though they are not needed. This can cause numerous different things to happen to the skin, including redness, swelling, scaly texture, patches of red bumps, and more.

This condition is either rated under the Basic Rating System, or scars/disfigurement whichever best describes the disability. If rated on scars/disfigurement, the final code will look like this: 7816-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as psoriasis, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

If the condition causes symptoms that affect other parts of the body besides the skin, it can be rated separately. So if it causes psoriatic arthritis, it can receive a second rating under code 5002 for rheumatoid arthritis, etc.

Like the last code, this code has only a minor change, so I didn’t reproduce the original here. The only significant change to this code is the ability to rate additional symptoms under separate codes. Currently, no ratings are given if the condition affects other areas of the body.
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-Current- Code 7817: Exfoliative dermatitis (erythroderma) is a dermatitis that causes a scaly rash that covers the majority of the entire body. It is normally caused by another condition, like cancer or a reaction to a medication. If that condition is unfitting by itself, then the exfoliative dermatitis can only be rated as well if it contributes significantly to making the service member unfitting (super sensitive to motion, can’t wear his uniform, etc.).

If the majority of the skin is affected and things such as weight loss, fever, low protein in the blood, etc., are present, and continuous medications to regulate the immune system (methotrexate, steroids, etc.) were taken over the past 12 months or regular treatments of ultraviolet or other light wave/beam therapy were needed during the past 12 months, it is rated 100%.

If the majority of the skin is affected, and continuous medications to regulate the immune system were taken over the past 12 months or regular treatments of ultraviolet or other light wave/beam therapy was needed during the past 12 months, it is rated 60%.

Regardless of how much skin is affected, if medications to regulate the immune system or ultraviolet or other light wave/beam therapy were needed for a total of 6 weeks (does not need to be consecutive) or more during the past 12 months, it is rated 30%.

Regardless of how much skin is affected, if medications to regulate the immune system or ultraviolet or other light wave/beam therapy were needed for a total of less than 6 weeks (does not need to be consecutive) or more during the past 12 months, it is rated 10%.

Regardless of how much skin is affected, if only topical treatments were used during the past 12 months, it is rated 0%.

-Proposed- Code 7817: Erythroderma is a dermatitis that causes a scaly rash that covers the majority of the entire body. It is normally caused by another condition, like cancer or a reaction to a medication. If that condition is unfitting by itself, then the exfoliative dermatitis can only be rated as well if it contributes significantly to making the service member unfitting (super sensitive to motion, can’t wear his uniform, etc.).

If the majority of the skin is affected and things such as weight loss, fever, low protein in the blood, etc., are present, and either 1.) continuous systemic treatments (corticosteroids, immunosuppressive retinoids, biologics, etc.) were taken over the past 12 months or 2.) regular treatments of ultraviolet or other light wave/electron beam therapy were needed during the past 12 months, it is rated 100%. A 100% rating is also given if no treatment is currently being attempted since at least 2 treatment regimens failed in the past. The failed regimens must be clearly documented.

In order to have “failed” the condition must have either gotten worse after the regimen or had less than 25% reduction in the severity after 4 weeks of treatment.

If the majority of the skin is affected, and either 1.) continuous systemic treatments were taken over the past 12 months or 2.) regular treatments of ultraviolet or other light wave/electron beam therapy was needed during the past 12 months, it is rated 60%. A 60% rating is also given if no treatment is currently being attempted since 1 treatment regimen failed in the past. The failed regimen must be clearly documented.

Regardless of how much skin is affected, if systemic treatments or ultraviolet or other light wave/electron beam therapy were needed for a total of 6 weeks (does not need to be consecutive) or more during the past 12 months, it is rated 30%.

Regardless of how much skin is affected, if systemic treatments or ultraviolet or other light wave/electron beam therapy were needed for a total of less than 6 weeks (does not need to be consecutive) or more during the past 12 months, it is rated 10%.

Regardless of how much skin is affected, if only topical treatments were used during the past 12 months, it is rated 0%.

The first change to this code is to get rid of “exfoliative dermatitis” from the title since it is a dated term that is no longer really used for this condition. The VA also more clearly specified and included new systemic treatment options in the rating criteria. Finally, the VA added a rating option to compensate those veterans who are not undergoing treatment because previous treatments had failed. In the majority of these cases, the treatment failure is caused by the severity of the underlying condition and treatment failure of that condition. These cases currently cannot be rated although their condition is significant.
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Code 7818 for malignant cancer of the skin remains exactly the same.
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Code 7819 for benign tumors remains exactly the same.
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-Current- Code 7820: All other infections of the skin that are not listed elsewhere are rated under this code. These conditions are either rated as dermatitis or as scars/disfigurement, whichever best describes the disability. The final code will look like this: 7820-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as a skin infection, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

-Proposed- Code 7820: All other infections of the skin that are not listed elsewhere are rated under this code.

These conditions are either rated under the Basic Rating System, or as scars/disfigurement, whichever best describes the disability. If rated on scars/disfigurement, the final code will look like this: 7820-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as a skin infection, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

The only change to this code is to include the Basic Rating System. No real effect on the ratings themselves.
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-Current- Code 7821: Cutaneous manifestations of collagen-vascular diseases are skin conditions that occur when the immune system attacks the collagen. Collagen is the proteins that are in the skin. Psoriasis is considered a collagen-vascular disease. This code is used to rate any collagen-vascular disease that is not listed elsewhere on this page.

-Proposed- Code 7821: Cutaneous manifestations of collagen-vascular diseases are skin conditions that occur when the immune system attacks the collagen. Collagen is the proteins that are in the skin. Psoriasis is considered a collagen-vascular disease. This code is used to rate any collagen-vascular disease that is not listed elsewhere on this page, including subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus.

This condition is rated on the Basic Rating System. If, however, the condition is so severe that it causes permanent scars, it can be rated as a scar condition under a scar code. The final code in that case would look like this: 7821-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as a collagen-vascular disease, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

The main change for this code is to include subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus instead of it being rated under code 7809. The ratings themselves, although reformatted as the Basic Rating System, do not change.
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-Proposed- Code 7822: Any other skin conditions that cause hard, scaly bumps (“papulosquamous disorders”) to form on the skin that are not listed anywhere else on this page are rated under this code, including mycosis fungoides, lichen planus, plaque parapsoriasi, PLEVA, PRP, lymphomatoid papulosus, and more.

This condition is either rated under the Basic Rating System, or scars/disfigurement whichever best describes the disability. If rated on scars/disfigurement, the final code will look like this: 7822-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as a papulosquamous disorder, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

Besides adjusting things for the Basic Rating System, the primary change to this code is to further clarify some of the specific conditions rated under this code, specifically mycosis fungoides which is often misrated under other codes.
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Code 7823 for vitiligo remains exactly the same.
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-Current- Code 7824: Diseases of keratinization affect the process where the lower layers of the skin turn into the harder outer layer of skin. Keratin is the protein that causes the skin to harden. Any condition that affects the process of keratinization is rated under this code.

If the condition affects the whole body and required almost constant oral or injected medication over the past 12 months, it is rated 60%. If the condition affects the whole body and required the use of oral or injected medication for a total of at least 6 weeks during the past 12 months, it is rated 30%. If the condition only affects some areas of the body and required the use of oral or injected medication for a total of less than 6 weeks during the past 12 months, it is rated 10%. If only topical treatments were required during the past 12 months, it is rated 0%.

-Proposed- Code 7824: Diseases of keratinization affect the process where the lower layers of the skin turn into the harder outer layer of skin. Keratin is the protein that causes the skin to harden. Any condition that affects the process of keratinization is rated under this code.  This condition is rated under the Basic Rating System.

The only change to this code is to have it solely rated under the Basic Rating System.
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-Current- Code 7825: Chronic hives are pale red, itchy bumps on the skin that are caused either by allergic reactions or various other causes. To qualify as chronic, they must last for 6 weeks or more. If there were severe debilitating (it’s impossible to do your job) episodes that occurred at least 4 times over the past 12 months that cannot be controlled by treatment, it is rated 60%. If there were severe debilitating episodes that occurred at least 4 times over the past 12 months but it could be controlled by medications that regulate the immune system (methotrexate, steroids, etc.) it is rated 30%. If there were episodes (not debilitating) that occurred at least 4 times over the past 12 months, but the condition could be controlled by medications that control swelling, it is rated 10%.

-Proposed- Code 7825: Chronic hives are pale red, itchy bumps on the skin that are caused either by allergic reactions or various other causes. To qualify as chronic, they must last for 6 weeks or more and recur occasionally. An “attack” is a single period of chronic hives that lasts at least 6 weeks. All attacks must be officially medically documented to count towards a rating.

If there are 4 or more attacks every 12 months that cannot be controlled by treatment, it is rated 60%.

If there are 4 or more attacks every 12 months that can be controlled by medications that supress the immune system (steroids, cyclosporine, etc.), it is rated 30%.

If there are 1 to 3 attacks every 12 months that can be controlled by medications that supress the immune system, it is rated 10%.

A 10% rating is also given if there are 4 or more attacks every 12 months that are treated by antihistamines or sympathomimetics, or if there are no documented attacks because it is sufficiently controlled by continuously taking medications that supress the immune system.

The VA proposes a number of changes to the ratings for hives. Currently, the ratings are based on debilitating episodes. To make the requirements more clear, the VA proposes using “attacks” instead of “debilitating episodes.” Basically, as long as a period of hives of 6 weeks or more is officially documented, it counts as an attack. It does not have to be specifically noted as debilitating.

More significantly, the VA adds two additional rating criteria for the 10% rating in order to more completely cover the level of disability presented by conditions that are only treated with “less severe” medications or that are controlled successfully by constant medication. This broadens the number of cases that will be able to qualify for a rating under this code.
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-Current- Code 7826: Primary cutaneous vasculitis is a condition of the small blood vessels near the skin, which causes them to burst. The skin turns red or purple due to bleeding under the skin. If this condition is caused by other conditions, like infections, medications, cancer, autoimmune disorders, etc., it can only be rated as that condition. If it is not caused by another condition, then it can be rated here. Likewise, if the condition caused significant scarring, it can be rated under the scar codes. Choose the one rating system that would give the highest rating.

If there were at least 4 debilitating (can’t perform your job) episodes over the past 12 months that did not respond to treatment, it is rated 60%. If there were at least 4 debilitating episodes over the past 12 months that were controlled by medications that regulate the immune system (methotrexate, steroids, etc.), then it is rated 30%. If there were 1 to 3 episodes (not debilitating) over the past 12 months that were controlled by medications that regulate the immune system, then it is rated 10%.

-Proposed- Code 7826: Primary cutaneous vasculitis is a condition of the small blood vessels near the skin, which causes them to burst. The skin turns red or purple due to bleeding under the skin. If this condition is caused by other conditions, like infections, medications, cancer, autoimmune disorders, etc., it can only be rated as that condition. If it is not caused by another condition, then it can be rated here. Likewise, if the condition caused significant scarring, it can be rated under the scar codes. Choose the one rating system that would give the highest rating.

An “episode” is a period of active symptoms. All episodes must be medically documented to count towards a rating.

If there are regular and consistent episodes where the symptoms do not properly respond to continuous medications that supress the immune system, it is rated 60%.

If there are 4 or more episodes every 12 months that can be controlled by medications that suppress the immune system (steroids, cyclosporine, etc.), it is rated 30%.

If there are 1 to 3 episodes every 12 months that can be controlled by medications that suppress the immune system, it is rated 10%.

A 10% rating is also given if there are no documented episodes because it is sufficiently controlled by continuously taking medications that suppress the immune system.

Similar to the changes for hives, the VA proposes to get rid of “debilitating episodes” and replace it with “episodes.” It does not have to be specifically noted as debilitating. The VA also adds one additional rating criteria for the 10% rating in order to more completely cover the level of disability presented by conditions that are controlled successfully by constant medication. This broadens the number of cases that will be able to qualify for a rating under this code.
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-Current- Code 7827: Erythema multiforme (toxic epidermal necrolysis, “TENs”) is either caused by an infection or is a reaction to medication. It causes red skin rashes and bumps to appear all over the body. It then attacks and kills the skin all over the body, causing the top layer of skin to detach from the lower layers all over the body, which can send the organs into failure. If the condition caused significant scarring, it can either be rated under the scar codes or this code. Choose the one that would give the highest rating.

If there were severe debilitating (it’s impossible to do your job) episodes that occurred at least 4 times over the past 12 months that could not be controlled by treatment, it is rated 60%. If there were episodes (not debilitating) that occurred at least 4 times over the past 12 months but it could be controlled by medications that regulate the immune system, it is rated 30%. If there were episodes (not debilitating) that occurred 2 or 3 times over the past 12 months that were controlled by medications that control swelling, it is rated 10%. A 10% rating is also given if there were 1 to 3 episodes that occurred over the past 12 months that were controlled by medications that regulate the immune system.

-Proposed- Code 7827: Erythema multiforme and toxic epidermal necrolysis (“TENs”) are both rated under this code. Both are either caused by an infection or are reactions to medication. They cause red skin rashes and bumps to appear all over the body. They then attack and kill the skin all over the body, causing the top layer of skin to detach from the lower layers, which can send the organs into failure. Erythema multiforme is less severe than TENs, usually only affecting less than 10% of the body. If the condition causes significant scarring, it can either be rated under the scar codes or this code, whichever gives the highest rating.

While both conditions can cause symptoms anywhere on the body, notable disabilities are caused when they affect the mouth (difficulty chewing), the hands (difficult gripping), or the feet (difficulty walking).

If the condition causes 4 or more episodes of mouth, hand, or foot impairment every 12 months despite constant medications that suppress the immune system, it is rated 60%.

If it causes 4 or more episodes of mouth, hand, or foot involvement (but doesn’t impair their functions) every 12 months that require occasional systemic treatments (immunosuppressives, antihistamines, or sympathomimetics), it is rated 30%.

If it causes 1 to 3 episodes of mouth, hand, or foot involvement (but doesn’t impair their functions) every 12 months that require occasional systemic treatments, it is rated 10%.

A 10% rating is also given if there are no episodes, but it requires continuous systemic treatments to control the symptoms.

The VA notes that for these conditions to be “debilitating” there must be mouth, hand, or foot involvement. So instead of using the vague phrase, they instead propose to change the rating requirements to specify mouth, hand, or foot involvement and the severity of that involvement.
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I’ll discuss both of the acne codes together.

-Current- Code 7828: Acne is a skin condition that causes puss-filled raised bumps that can occur anywhere on the body.

Code 7829: Chloracne is a condition where acne erupts over patches of skin that have come in contact with chemicals that contain dioxins.

Some acne is very superficial, involving only one layer of the skin, while other acne can be very deep. Often acne causes scarring. If the scars are the main disability, then this condition can be rated under the scar codes.

The ratings: If the acne is deep, causing inflammation and puss-filled cysts, and affects 40% or more of the face and neck, it is rated 30%. If the acne is deep, causing inflammation and pussy cysts, and affects less than 40% of the face and neck, or if deep acne is in areas other than the face and neck, it is rated 10%. If the acne is superficial, it is rated 0%.

-Proposed- Code 7828: Acne is a skin condition that causes puss-filled raised bumps that can occur anywhere on the body.

Some acne is very superficial, involving only one layer of the skin, while other acne can be very deep. Often acne causes scarring. If the scars are the main disability, then this condition can be rated under the scar codes.

If the acne is deep, causing inflammation and puss-filled cysts, and affects 40% or more of the face and neck, it is rated 30%. If the acne is deep, causing inflammation and puss-filled cysts, and affects less than 40% of the face and neck, or if deep acne is in areas other than the face and neck, it is rated 10%. If the acne is superficial, it is rated 0%.

Code 7829: Chloracne is a condition where acne erupts over patches of skin that have come in contact with chemicals that contain dioxins.

Some chloracne is very superficial, involving only one layer of the skin, while other chloracne can be very deep. Often chloracne causes scarring. If the scars are the main disability, then this condition can be rated under the scar codes.

If the chloracne is deep, causing inflammation and puss-filled cysts, and affects 40% or more of the face and neck, it is rated 30%.

A 20% rating is given if the chloracne is deep, causing inflammation and puss-filled cysts, and affects at least one of the following areas: the armpit, the genital region, the folds of the breast, and the areas between the fingers and toes.

If the chloracne is deep, causing inflammation and puss-filled cysts, and affects less than 40% of the face and neck, or if deep chloracne is in areas other than the face and neck or the areas noted above, it is rated 10%.

If the chloracne is superficial, it is rated 0%.

The only proposed change to code 7828 for acne is to remove the term that is no longer used. In reality, nothing changes at all.

For code 7829 for chloracne, however, the VA adds a new 20% rating for deep acne that is found in certain regions on the body. Deep, painful acne in these regions would cause a higher level of disability because of the difficulty of movement it would cause, so the VA feels that a 20% rating would more fully reflect the level of disability.
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Code 7830 for scarring alopecia, code 7831 for alopecia areata, code 7832 for hyperhidrosis, and code 7833 for malignant melanoma all remain exactly the same.


The Blog at Military Disability Made Easy: Proposed Changes to the Ratings of the Skin are Now Open to Comments

Friday, August 26, 2016

Proposed Changes to the Ratings of the Skin are Now Open to Comments

On August 12th, 2016, the VA published their proposed changes to the ratings of the Skin (including Scars). This is the seventh set of changes that has been proposed as part of the VA’s complete rewrite of the VASRD which is supposed to be done by the end of 2016, but has been significantly delayed. Previously published changes include the Hemic and Lymphatic System, Mental Disorders, the Female Reproductive System, The Eyes, the Endocrine System, and Dental and Oral Conditions.

With each set of proposed changes, the VA allows a period in which comments can be submitted. The VA then takes each comment into consideration and makes any additional changes that are warranted before publishing the final ruling.

We encourage you to submit any comments you might have on these proposed changes to us either by commenting on this post or by contacting us through our website. All comments must be received by September 15th, 2016. We will then compile all of your comments into a single report and submit it on your behalf to the VA, just as we did for the Female Reproductive System. This is a great opportunity to really make a difference, so please let us know your thoughts.

The following are the VA’s proposed changes to the ratings for the Skin. The changes are fairly extensive, so I’ll walk through each, one at a time.

For each condition, the small, indented parts are the code as it is right now. Click on the code numbers to be taken to the discussion of that code on our site. After the current code, I’ll discuss the proposed changes.

First, a few changes to the overall system:

The first proposed change is to add a note that fully defines systemic vs topical therapies for the treatment of skin conditions. As it is currently, it is a bit confusing what treatments are considered which due to the fact that some topical treatments can cause systemic reactions. Thus, to make it clear, the proposed change defines them as follows:

    - Systemic therapy is any treatment that is injected, or taken by mouth, through the nose, or anally. This includes, but is not limited to, corticosteroids, phototherapy, retinoids, biologics, photochemotherapy, PUVA, and other immunosuppressive drugs.
            - Topical therapy is any treatment applied directly to the skin.

The VA reasons that these specifications allow for more fair ratings. If topical treatments of a very small skin area could qualify for a systemic rating, they would get an incredibly high rating for a fairly insignificant condition. On the other hand, in order for a topical treatment to cause systemic effects, it would have to be administered regularly over a very large area of the body. Because of this, a rating for the skin area alone would give a high enough rating to justify the severity of the condition.

The second proposed change is to create a Basic Rating System that would be used to rate a number of skin conditions (though not all). The idea is that these conditions have similar enough symptoms, treatments, and overall disabilities that a single rating system would effectively rate each condition. So here is the proposed system:

The Basic Rating System

If the condition covers more than 40% of total body or more than 40% of exposed divisions affected, or if it requires the constant or near-constant use of systemic therapy for 12 months, it is rated 60%.

If the condition covers 20 to 40% of total body or 20 to 40% of exposed divisions affected, or if it requires the use of systemic therapy for a total of 6 weeks or more every 12 months, it is rated 30%.

If the condition covers 5 to 20% of total body or 5 to 20% of exposed divisions affected, or if it requires the use of systemic therapy for a total of less than 6 weeks every 12 months, it is rated 10%.

If the condition covers less than 5% of total body or less than 5% of exposed divisions affected, or if it requires only topical medications every 12 months, it is rated 0%.

Note: The VA proposes changing the terminology of the VASRD from “during the past 12-month period” to “per 12-month period.” They say this change adds clarity, but in reality, it doesn’t. With this change, it isn’t clear whether or not that means the past 12 months, or any 12-month period during the past 20 years. For the purposes of this blog, I’ve interpreted it as “every 12 months”, but acknowledge that this probably isn’t really what they meant either since their discussions often still say “past 12 months.” This is a definite issue that they need to clearly clarify before publishing the final changes, and one that I will be addressing in the comments we submit. Just note that anytime in this blog that I say “every 12 months”, the real meaning is still to be determined. I think the most logical interpretation is still the “past 12 months,” but since they made a big to-do about changing it, I couldn’t just leave it as is.

Now on to the codes.
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Code 7800 for scars or disfigurement of the head, face, and neck remains exactly the same.
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I’m going to discuss the changes for codes 7801, 7802, and 7805 together. These codes are fairly extensive, so I’m not going to reproduce the current ones here. Click on the linked codes just listed to go the discussion of them on our site. Here are the proposed codes:

-Proposed- Scars of the Body

Scars of the body are any scars that are not found on the head, face, and neck.

Important! Each part of the body that is affected by a scar can be rated separately! Woo-hoo! For each kind of scar (deep, code 7801, superficial, code 7802, or other, code 7805), a single rating is given for each area of the body affected. These ratings are then combined using VA Math into a single overall scar rating assigned under the corresponding code. So if there are multiple scars or a single scar that affects more than one part of the body, then each is rated separately and then combined into a single overall rating for that kind of scar. For example, if a deep scar on the back is rated 30% and a deep scar on the stomach is rated 20%, the ratings would be combined using VA Math into a single 40% overall rating for deep scars.

If, however, a higher rating can be achieved by adding the measurements for all of the scars in all the areas of the body together, then this rating can be given instead. For example, if there is a single deep scar that measures 6 in2 but is divided between two areas (each 3 in2), then only a 0% would be given. But if the two areas are combined into 6 in2, then it would qualify for a 10% rating.

Below is a picture of the different areas of the body that can be rated separately. There are 6 areas in total, and they include the right arm, the left arm, the right leg, the left leg, the front of the torso, and the back of the torso. The front and back of the torso are separated by the midline on the side of the body. (The neck and head are rated under code 7800).




Time for the ratings:

Code 7801: Deep scars are considered “deep” if there is damage to the soft tissues under the skin. If the area of scarring in a single body part is 144 in2 or bigger, then it is rated 40%. If the area is between 72 in2 and 144 in2, it is rated 30%. If the area is between 12 in2 and 72 in2, then it is rated 20%. If it is between 6 in2 and 12 in2, it is rated 10%.

Code 7802: Superficial scars are ones that only affect the skin, not the soft tissues underneath. If the area of scarring in a single body part is 144 in2 or more, it is rated 10%. No other rating is given for superficial scars under this code.

Code 7805: All other scars are not ratable in and of themselves. If they cause another condition that makes it hard to properly do your job, then that other condition is rated. So, for example, if a linear scar running up the arm makes it impossible to fully bend or straighten the arm at the elbow, then it is rated under limited motion of the elbow. The final code will look like this: 7805-3400. The first four-digit code defines the condition as a linear scar, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

The biggest change for these codes is getting rid of the differentiation between linear and non-linear scars. Under the current codes, linear scars are pretty much not ratable, even if they are considered deep. The proposed changes, however, allow for linear scars to be rated the same as non-linear scars. So a deep linear scar that measures at least 6 in2 would qualify for a 10% rating instead of receiving nothing.

The only other change is to allow all the areas of the body to be combined and then rated (instead of rated separately and then combined) if it would provide a higher rating.
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Code 7804 for painful or unstable scars remains exactly the same.
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-Current- Code 7806: Dermatitis and eczema are essentially the same thing, although some doctors might describe them slightly different. For rating purposes, however, they are treated the same. Basically, dermatitis is a condition where the skin swells and turns red—the standard rash.

There are three different rating options for this condition. If the condition is so severe that it causes permanent scars, it can be rated as a scar condition under a scar code. The final code in that case would look like this: 7806-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as dermatitis, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

It can also be rated under this code either on calculations/estimations or on the required treatment of the condition itself.

Calculations/estimations: If there is more than 40% of total body or more than 40% of exposed divisions affected, it is rated 60%. If there is 20 to 40% of total body or 20 to 40% of exposed divisions affected, it is rated 30%. If there is 5 to 20% of total body or 5 to 20% of exposed divisions affected, it is rated 10%. If there is less than 5% of total body or less than 5% of exposed divisions affected, it is rated 0%.

Treatments: If the condition required the almost constant use of oral or injected medications to regulate the immune system over the past 12 months (methotrexate, steroids, etc.), it is rated 60%. If the condition required oral or injected medications to regulate the immune system for a total of 6 weeks or more during the past 12 months, it is rated 30%. If the condition required oral or injected medications to regulate the immune system for a total of less than 6 weeks over the past 12 months, it is rated 10%. If the condition only required topical (put on the outside of the skin) medications over the past 12 months, it is rated 0%.

-Proposed- Code 7806: Dermatitis and eczema are essentially the same thing, although some doctors might describe them slightly different. For rating purposes, however, they are treated the same. Basically, dermatitis is a condition where the skin swells and turns red—the standard rash.

This condition is rated on the Basic Rating System. If, however, the condition is so severe that it causes permanent scars, it can be rated as a scar condition under a scar code. The final code in that case would look like this: 7806-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as dermatitis, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

In reality, the proposed changes don’t change the ratings themselves for this code. The new Basic Rating System gives the same ratings it currently has.
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Code 7807 for New World (“American”) mucocutaneous leishmaniasis remains exactly the same.
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Code 7808 for Old World cutaneous leishmaniasis (“Oriental sore”) remains exactly the same.
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-Current- Code 7809: Lupus is a condition where the immune system attacks the healthy cells of the skin, causing severe sores, tearing, and scarring of the skin. Most often, these occur on the head near the ears, eyes, nose, lips and cheeks, but in some cases lupus sores can affect other areas of the body. Lupus is either rated as dermatitis or as scars/disfigurement, whichever best describes the disability. The final code will look like this: 7809-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as lupus, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

If the lupus affects parts of the body besides the skin, then it is rated under code 6350 for systematic lupus erythematosus. A rating cannot be given under both codes. Only one or the other.

-Proposed- Code 7809: Lupus is a condition where the immune system attacks the healthy cells of the skin, causing severe sores, tearing, and scarring of the skin. Most often, these occur on the head near the ears, eyes, nose, lips and cheeks, but in some cases lupus sores can affect other areas of the body.

This condition is rated on the Basic Rating System. If, however, the condition is so severe that it causes permanent scars, it can be rated as a scar condition under a scar code. The final code in that case would look like this: 7809-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as lupus, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

If the lupus affects parts of the body besides the skin, then it is rated under code 6350 for systematic lupus erythematosus. A rating cannot be given under both codes. Only one or the other.

Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus is rated under code 7821.

Again, the ratings for this code don’t change at all since the Basic Rating System is the dermatitis rating system and the scar option still applies.

The main change is to move the rating of subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus to code 7821. Right now, it is rated here, but based on more thorough and modern medical knowledge, the VA wants to move the rating of subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus to code 7821 because the condition is actually closer to collagen-vascular disease than this lupus.
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Code 7811 for tuberculosis luposa remains exactly the same.
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-Current- Code 7813: Dermatophytosis (“ringworm”) is a fungal infection that causes ring-shaped red and swollen patches on the skin. This condition is either rated under dermatitis, or scars/disfigurement whichever best describes the disability. The final code will look like this: 7813-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as dermatophytosis, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

-Proposed- Code 7813: Dermatophytosis (“ringworm”) is a fungal infection that causes ring-shaped red and swollen patches on the skin.

This condition is either rated under the Basic Rating System, or scars/disfigurement whichever best describes the disability. If rated on scars/disfigurement, the final code will look like this: 7813-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as dermatophytosis, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

Again, the ratings for this code don’t change at all since the Basic Rating System is the dermatitis rating system and the scar option still applies.

The VA does specify a few additional conditions that are rated under this code, namely onychomycosis and tinea versicolor, but these are forms of dermatophytosis and so are rated here already anyway. All of the various kinds of dermatophytosis are rated here.
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-Proposed- Code 7815: Bullous disorders cause blisters of clear liquid to form in between the layers of the skin, most often on the inner thighs and upper arms.

This condition is either rated under the Basic Rating System, or scars/disfigurement whichever best describes the disability. If rated on scars/disfigurement, the final code will look like this: 7815-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as a bullous disorder, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

If the condition causes symptoms that affect other parts of the body besides the skin, it can be rated separately. So if it affects the lungs, it can receive a second rating under the lung code that best describes the symptoms.

This code has only a minor change, so I didn’t reproduce the original here. The only significant change to this code is the ability to rate additional symptoms under separate codes. Currently, no ratings are given if the condition affects other areas of the body.
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-Proposed- Code 7816: Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that tells the body to produce more skin cells even though they are not needed. This can cause numerous different things to happen to the skin, including redness, swelling, scaly texture, patches of red bumps, and more.

This condition is either rated under the Basic Rating System, or scars/disfigurement whichever best describes the disability. If rated on scars/disfigurement, the final code will look like this: 7816-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as psoriasis, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

If the condition causes symptoms that affect other parts of the body besides the skin, it can be rated separately. So if it causes psoriatic arthritis, it can receive a second rating under code 5002 for rheumatoid arthritis, etc.

Like the last code, this code has only a minor change, so I didn’t reproduce the original here. The only significant change to this code is the ability to rate additional symptoms under separate codes. Currently, no ratings are given if the condition affects other areas of the body.
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-Current- Code 7817: Exfoliative dermatitis (erythroderma) is a dermatitis that causes a scaly rash that covers the majority of the entire body. It is normally caused by another condition, like cancer or a reaction to a medication. If that condition is unfitting by itself, then the exfoliative dermatitis can only be rated as well if it contributes significantly to making the service member unfitting (super sensitive to motion, can’t wear his uniform, etc.).

If the majority of the skin is affected and things such as weight loss, fever, low protein in the blood, etc., are present, and continuous medications to regulate the immune system (methotrexate, steroids, etc.) were taken over the past 12 months or regular treatments of ultraviolet or other light wave/beam therapy were needed during the past 12 months, it is rated 100%.

If the majority of the skin is affected, and continuous medications to regulate the immune system were taken over the past 12 months or regular treatments of ultraviolet or other light wave/beam therapy was needed during the past 12 months, it is rated 60%.

Regardless of how much skin is affected, if medications to regulate the immune system or ultraviolet or other light wave/beam therapy were needed for a total of 6 weeks (does not need to be consecutive) or more during the past 12 months, it is rated 30%.

Regardless of how much skin is affected, if medications to regulate the immune system or ultraviolet or other light wave/beam therapy were needed for a total of less than 6 weeks (does not need to be consecutive) or more during the past 12 months, it is rated 10%.

Regardless of how much skin is affected, if only topical treatments were used during the past 12 months, it is rated 0%.

-Proposed- Code 7817: Erythroderma is a dermatitis that causes a scaly rash that covers the majority of the entire body. It is normally caused by another condition, like cancer or a reaction to a medication. If that condition is unfitting by itself, then the exfoliative dermatitis can only be rated as well if it contributes significantly to making the service member unfitting (super sensitive to motion, can’t wear his uniform, etc.).

If the majority of the skin is affected and things such as weight loss, fever, low protein in the blood, etc., are present, and either 1.) continuous systemic treatments (corticosteroids, immunosuppressive retinoids, biologics, etc.) were taken over the past 12 months or 2.) regular treatments of ultraviolet or other light wave/electron beam therapy were needed during the past 12 months, it is rated 100%. A 100% rating is also given if no treatment is currently being attempted since at least 2 treatment regimens failed in the past. The failed regimens must be clearly documented.

In order to have “failed” the condition must have either gotten worse after the regimen or had less than 25% reduction in the severity after 4 weeks of treatment.

If the majority of the skin is affected, and either 1.) continuous systemic treatments were taken over the past 12 months or 2.) regular treatments of ultraviolet or other light wave/electron beam therapy was needed during the past 12 months, it is rated 60%. A 60% rating is also given if no treatment is currently being attempted since 1 treatment regimen failed in the past. The failed regimen must be clearly documented.

Regardless of how much skin is affected, if systemic treatments or ultraviolet or other light wave/electron beam therapy were needed for a total of 6 weeks (does not need to be consecutive) or more during the past 12 months, it is rated 30%.

Regardless of how much skin is affected, if systemic treatments or ultraviolet or other light wave/electron beam therapy were needed for a total of less than 6 weeks (does not need to be consecutive) or more during the past 12 months, it is rated 10%.

Regardless of how much skin is affected, if only topical treatments were used during the past 12 months, it is rated 0%.

The first change to this code is to get rid of “exfoliative dermatitis” from the title since it is a dated term that is no longer really used for this condition. The VA also more clearly specified and included new systemic treatment options in the rating criteria. Finally, the VA added a rating option to compensate those veterans who are not undergoing treatment because previous treatments had failed. In the majority of these cases, the treatment failure is caused by the severity of the underlying condition and treatment failure of that condition. These cases currently cannot be rated although their condition is significant.
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Code 7818 for malignant cancer of the skin remains exactly the same.
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Code 7819 for benign tumors remains exactly the same.
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-Current- Code 7820: All other infections of the skin that are not listed elsewhere are rated under this code. These conditions are either rated as dermatitis or as scars/disfigurement, whichever best describes the disability. The final code will look like this: 7820-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as a skin infection, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

-Proposed- Code 7820: All other infections of the skin that are not listed elsewhere are rated under this code.

These conditions are either rated under the Basic Rating System, or as scars/disfigurement, whichever best describes the disability. If rated on scars/disfigurement, the final code will look like this: 7820-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as a skin infection, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

The only change to this code is to include the Basic Rating System. No real effect on the ratings themselves.
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-Current- Code 7821: Cutaneous manifestations of collagen-vascular diseases are skin conditions that occur when the immune system attacks the collagen. Collagen is the proteins that are in the skin. Psoriasis is considered a collagen-vascular disease. This code is used to rate any collagen-vascular disease that is not listed elsewhere on this page.

-Proposed- Code 7821: Cutaneous manifestations of collagen-vascular diseases are skin conditions that occur when the immune system attacks the collagen. Collagen is the proteins that are in the skin. Psoriasis is considered a collagen-vascular disease. This code is used to rate any collagen-vascular disease that is not listed elsewhere on this page, including subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus.

This condition is rated on the Basic Rating System. If, however, the condition is so severe that it causes permanent scars, it can be rated as a scar condition under a scar code. The final code in that case would look like this: 7821-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as a collagen-vascular disease, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

The main change for this code is to include subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus instead of it being rated under code 7809. The ratings themselves, although reformatted as the Basic Rating System, do not change.
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-Proposed- Code 7822: Any other skin conditions that cause hard, scaly bumps (“papulosquamous disorders”) to form on the skin that are not listed anywhere else on this page are rated under this code, including mycosis fungoides, lichen planus, plaque parapsoriasi, PLEVA, PRP, lymphomatoid papulosus, and more.

This condition is either rated under the Basic Rating System, or scars/disfigurement whichever best describes the disability. If rated on scars/disfigurement, the final code will look like this: 7822-7801. The first four-digit code defines the condition as a papulosquamous disorder, and the second four-digit code tells how it is rated.

Besides adjusting things for the Basic Rating System, the primary change to this code is to further clarify some of the specific conditions rated under this code, specifically mycosis fungoides which is often misrated under other codes.
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Code 7823 for vitiligo remains exactly the same.
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-Current- Code 7824: Diseases of keratinization affect the process where the lower layers of the skin turn into the harder outer layer of skin. Keratin is the protein that causes the skin to harden. Any condition that affects the process of keratinization is rated under this code.

If the condition affects the whole body and required almost constant oral or injected medication over the past 12 months, it is rated 60%. If the condition affects the whole body and required the use of oral or injected medication for a total of at least 6 weeks during the past 12 months, it is rated 30%. If the condition only affects some areas of the body and required the use of oral or injected medication for a total of less than 6 weeks during the past 12 months, it is rated 10%. If only topical treatments were required during the past 12 months, it is rated 0%.

-Proposed- Code 7824: Diseases of keratinization affect the process where the lower layers of the skin turn into the harder outer layer of skin. Keratin is the protein that causes the skin to harden. Any condition that affects the process of keratinization is rated under this code.  This condition is rated under the Basic Rating System.

The only change to this code is to have it solely rated under the Basic Rating System.
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-Current- Code 7825: Chronic hives are pale red, itchy bumps on the skin that are caused either by allergic reactions or various other causes. To qualify as chronic, they must last for 6 weeks or more. If there were severe debilitating (it’s impossible to do your job) episodes that occurred at least 4 times over the past 12 months that cannot be controlled by treatment, it is rated 60%. If there were severe debilitating episodes that occurred at least 4 times over the past 12 months but it could be controlled by medications that regulate the immune system (methotrexate, steroids, etc.) it is rated 30%. If there were episodes (not debilitating) that occurred at least 4 times over the past 12 months, but the condition could be controlled by medications that control swelling, it is rated 10%.

-Proposed- Code 7825: Chronic hives are pale red, itchy bumps on the skin that are caused either by allergic reactions or various other causes. To qualify as chronic, they must last for 6 weeks or more and recur occasionally. An “attack” is a single period of chronic hives that lasts at least 6 weeks. All attacks must be officially medically documented to count towards a rating.

If there are 4 or more attacks every 12 months that cannot be controlled by treatment, it is rated 60%.

If there are 4 or more attacks every 12 months that can be controlled by medications that supress the immune system (steroids, cyclosporine, etc.), it is rated 30%.

If there are 1 to 3 attacks every 12 months that can be controlled by medications that supress the immune system, it is rated 10%.

A 10% rating is also given if there are 4 or more attacks every 12 months that are treated by antihistamines or sympathomimetics, or if there are no documented attacks because it is sufficiently controlled by continuously taking medications that supress the immune system.

The VA proposes a number of changes to the ratings for hives. Currently, the ratings are based on debilitating episodes. To make the requirements more clear, the VA proposes using “attacks” instead of “debilitating episodes.” Basically, as long as a period of hives of 6 weeks or more is officially documented, it counts as an attack. It does not have to be specifically noted as debilitating.

More significantly, the VA adds two additional rating criteria for the 10% rating in order to more completely cover the level of disability presented by conditions that are only treated with “less severe” medications or that are controlled successfully by constant medication. This broadens the number of cases that will be able to qualify for a rating under this code.
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-Current- Code 7826: Primary cutaneous vasculitis is a condition of the small blood vessels near the skin, which causes them to burst. The skin turns red or purple due to bleeding under the skin. If this condition is caused by other conditions, like infections, medications, cancer, autoimmune disorders, etc., it can only be rated as that condition. If it is not caused by another condition, then it can be rated here. Likewise, if the condition caused significant scarring, it can be rated under the scar codes. Choose the one rating system that would give the highest rating.

If there were at least 4 debilitating (can’t perform your job) episodes over the past 12 months that did not respond to treatment, it is rated 60%. If there were at least 4 debilitating episodes over the past 12 months that were controlled by medications that regulate the immune system (methotrexate, steroids, etc.), then it is rated 30%. If there were 1 to 3 episodes (not debilitating) over the past 12 months that were controlled by medications that regulate the immune system, then it is rated 10%.

-Proposed- Code 7826: Primary cutaneous vasculitis is a condition of the small blood vessels near the skin, which causes them to burst. The skin turns red or purple due to bleeding under the skin. If this condition is caused by other conditions, like infections, medications, cancer, autoimmune disorders, etc., it can only be rated as that condition. If it is not caused by another condition, then it can be rated here. Likewise, if the condition caused significant scarring, it can be rated under the scar codes. Choose the one rating system that would give the highest rating.

An “episode” is a period of active symptoms. All episodes must be medically documented to count towards a rating.

If there are regular and consistent episodes where the symptoms do not properly respond to continuous medications that supress the immune system, it is rated 60%.

If there are 4 or more episodes every 12 months that can be controlled by medications that suppress the immune system (steroids, cyclosporine, etc.), it is rated 30%.

If there are 1 to 3 episodes every 12 months that can be controlled by medications that suppress the immune system, it is rated 10%.

A 10% rating is also given if there are no documented episodes because it is sufficiently controlled by continuously taking medications that suppress the immune system.

Similar to the changes for hives, the VA proposes to get rid of “debilitating episodes” and replace it with “episodes.” It does not have to be specifically noted as debilitating. The VA also adds one additional rating criteria for the 10% rating in order to more completely cover the level of disability presented by conditions that are controlled successfully by constant medication. This broadens the number of cases that will be able to qualify for a rating under this code.
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-Current- Code 7827: Erythema multiforme (toxic epidermal necrolysis, “TENs”) is either caused by an infection or is a reaction to medication. It causes red skin rashes and bumps to appear all over the body. It then attacks and kills the skin all over the body, causing the top layer of skin to detach from the lower layers all over the body, which can send the organs into failure. If the condition caused significant scarring, it can either be rated under the scar codes or this code. Choose the one that would give the highest rating.

If there were severe debilitating (it’s impossible to do your job) episodes that occurred at least 4 times over the past 12 months that could not be controlled by treatment, it is rated 60%. If there were episodes (not debilitating) that occurred at least 4 times over the past 12 months but it could be controlled by medications that regulate the immune system, it is rated 30%. If there were episodes (not debilitating) that occurred 2 or 3 times over the past 12 months that were controlled by medications that control swelling, it is rated 10%. A 10% rating is also given if there were 1 to 3 episodes that occurred over the past 12 months that were controlled by medications that regulate the immune system.

-Proposed- Code 7827: Erythema multiforme and toxic epidermal necrolysis (“TENs”) are both rated under this code. Both are either caused by an infection or are reactions to medication. They cause red skin rashes and bumps to appear all over the body. They then attack and kill the skin all over the body, causing the top layer of skin to detach from the lower layers, which can send the organs into failure. Erythema multiforme is less severe than TENs, usually only affecting less than 10% of the body. If the condition causes significant scarring, it can either be rated under the scar codes or this code, whichever gives the highest rating.

While both conditions can cause symptoms anywhere on the body, notable disabilities are caused when they affect the mouth (difficulty chewing), the hands (difficult gripping), or the feet (difficulty walking).

If the condition causes 4 or more episodes of mouth, hand, or foot impairment every 12 months despite constant medications that suppress the immune system, it is rated 60%.

If it causes 4 or more episodes of mouth, hand, or foot involvement (but doesn’t impair their functions) every 12 months that require occasional systemic treatments (immunosuppressives, antihistamines, or sympathomimetics), it is rated 30%.

If it causes 1 to 3 episodes of mouth, hand, or foot involvement (but doesn’t impair their functions) every 12 months that require occasional systemic treatments, it is rated 10%.

A 10% rating is also given if there are no episodes, but it requires continuous systemic treatments to control the symptoms.

The VA notes that for these conditions to be “debilitating” there must be mouth, hand, or foot involvement. So instead of using the vague phrase, they instead propose to change the rating requirements to specify mouth, hand, or foot involvement and the severity of that involvement.
__________________________________________________________________________

I’ll discuss both of the acne codes together.

-Current- Code 7828: Acne is a skin condition that causes puss-filled raised bumps that can occur anywhere on the body.

Code 7829: Chloracne is a condition where acne erupts over patches of skin that have come in contact with chemicals that contain dioxins.

Some acne is very superficial, involving only one layer of the skin, while other acne can be very deep. Often acne causes scarring. If the scars are the main disability, then this condition can be rated under the scar codes.

The ratings: If the acne is deep, causing inflammation and puss-filled cysts, and affects 40% or more of the face and neck, it is rated 30%. If the acne is deep, causing inflammation and pussy cysts, and affects less than 40% of the face and neck, or if deep acne is in areas other than the face and neck, it is rated 10%. If the acne is superficial, it is rated 0%.

-Proposed- Code 7828: Acne is a skin condition that causes puss-filled raised bumps that can occur anywhere on the body.

Some acne is very superficial, involving only one layer of the skin, while other acne can be very deep. Often acne causes scarring. If the scars are the main disability, then this condition can be rated under the scar codes.

If the acne is deep, causing inflammation and puss-filled cysts, and affects 40% or more of the face and neck, it is rated 30%. If the acne is deep, causing inflammation and puss-filled cysts, and affects less than 40% of the face and neck, or if deep acne is in areas other than the face and neck, it is rated 10%. If the acne is superficial, it is rated 0%.

Code 7829: Chloracne is a condition where acne erupts over patches of skin that have come in contact with chemicals that contain dioxins.

Some chloracne is very superficial, involving only one layer of the skin, while other chloracne can be very deep. Often chloracne causes scarring. If the scars are the main disability, then this condition can be rated under the scar codes.

If the chloracne is deep, causing inflammation and puss-filled cysts, and affects 40% or more of the face and neck, it is rated 30%.

A 20% rating is given if the chloracne is deep, causing inflammation and puss-filled cysts, and affects at least one of the following areas: the armpit, the genital region, the folds of the breast, and the areas between the fingers and toes.

If the chloracne is deep, causing inflammation and puss-filled cysts, and affects less than 40% of the face and neck, or if deep chloracne is in areas other than the face and neck or the areas noted above, it is rated 10%.

If the chloracne is superficial, it is rated 0%.

The only proposed change to code 7828 for acne is to remove the term that is no longer used. In reality, nothing changes at all.

For code 7829 for chloracne, however, the VA adds a new 20% rating for deep acne that is found in certain regions on the body. Deep, painful acne in these regions would cause a higher level of disability because of the difficulty of movement it would cause, so the VA feels that a 20% rating would more fully reflect the level of disability.
__________________________________________________________________________

Code 7830 for scarring alopecia, code 7831 for alopecia areata, code 7832 for hyperhidrosis, and code 7833 for malignant melanoma all remain exactly the same.


posted by Military Disability Made Easy @ 9:19 AM   45 Comments

45 Comments:

At August 26, 2016 at 1:10 PM , Blogger Unknown said...

First and foremost, this website is a Godsend for Veterans! I am a woman veteran that suffers emotionally and physically from the traumatic impact of loosing all of my hair and being completely bald to include both eyebrows and body hair since the Gulf War, but not properly related to Gulf War. For a woman to loose her hair it also impacts her level of intimacy. Currently, I am compensated 20% under code 7830 for scarring alopecia since 2009. Although, the award letter mentioned I have neither eyebrows nor bodily hair, the losses are not rated or compensated and I believe that the condition should be reviewed for systemic reasons as well. It seems the alopecia is mostly regarded as a cosmetic issue and is not regarded for the emotional scarring or financial impact that it has for the veteran that needs cranial prosthesis (wig)and supplies to maintain the units. Two units are available to veterans that have loss their hair from chemotherapy for a lifetime because it is highly suggestive that their hair loss is temporary, unlike veterans like me that hair will not return. Therefore, we need access to a lifetime of cranial prosthesis at regular intervals because the units are not built to last against the element and wear and tear. It has been very costly and difficult to process orders for the cranial prosthesis because the vendors are few and far between and mostly sell inferior products for an extreme cost to the government. Therefore, when the government allots thousands of dollars for one cranial prosthesis (ie $1400-$2400)it is most difficult for the veteran to get the amount of units needed to sustain without enduring a financial hardship replacing units while awaiting another cycle of prosthesis that may or may not be received for various reasons. In addition, it is humiliating as a woman veteran to go to prosthetics department to process the orders. I am proposing that the veteran receives stipend to privately and independently purchase cranial prosthesis with monthly monetary deposit or a VA Visa Credit Card. As the VA becomes more sensitive to the unique needs of women veterans this will go a long way to providing the services that impact both men and women differently.

 
At August 31, 2016 at 5:23 AM , Blogger Unknown said...

I don't see a rating for rosacea, which can be treated but not cured.

 
At August 31, 2016 at 2:57 PM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

Thank you so much for this comment. You raise a good argument, and we will make sure to include it in our comments to the VA. It's true that permanent female hair loss is not properly addressed but is a form of scaring that should be properly compensated.

 
At August 31, 2016 at 2:59 PM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

Roasacea is considered a type of dermatitis and so is always rated under the dermatitis code.

 
At September 26, 2016 at 7:45 AM , Blogger AHunter said...

How will PFB fall under these new changes?

 
At October 3, 2016 at 11:13 AM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

If the pseudofolliculitis barbae is severe enough to warrant a rating, then it is rated under code 7806 for dermatitis both under the current and proposed new ratings.

 
At October 5, 2016 at 12:04 PM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

I also wanted to mention that you should be receiving a 10% rating for complete loss of the eyebrows under code 6023 and another 10% rating for complete loss of the eyelashes under code 6024.

http://www.militarydisabilitymadeeasy.com/theeyes.html#loss

If you do have complete hair loss in these areas, you can submit to have these ratings added.

 
At December 13, 2016 at 2:46 PM , Blogger Sara said...

Doctor,
Can you please tell me if fibroids that appeared while on active duty are considered for disability?
Thank you

 
At December 14, 2016 at 11:05 AM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

Hi Sara -

Yes, fibroids can be a service-connected condition. They are rated under code 7613 as a condition of the uterus.

http://www.militarydisabilitymadeeasy.com/femalereproductive.html#diseases

 
At December 15, 2016 at 9:56 AM , Blogger Unknown said...

Is there a rating code for moderate dermatgraphia?

Thanks,
Brian

 
At December 20, 2016 at 12:05 PM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

Hi Brian -

Dermatographia is going to be a difficult condition to rate. The VASRD doesn't have a rating for it, so it will have to be rated analogously, which means that the Rating Authority will choose whatever code they think best matches your overall condition. Because of this, it is impossible for me to predict exactly how they'll choose to rate it.

In all likelihood, however, it is unlikely that this condition will be rated very high.

Once possible rating option would be code 7806 for dermatitis. The highest it would get here would be 10% and only if it required the continuous use of oral medications to control. It could also be rated under code 7825 for urticaria, but a rating under this code would require the raised welts to be present for at least 6 weeks or more. The majority resolve within 30 minutes. But a 10% under this code may still be warranted if the welts are regularly present over a long period of time and require medications to control.

It is incredibly unlikely that it will qualify for more than a 10% rating.

Check out our skin page for information on these codes:

http://www.militarydisabilitymadeeasy.com/theskin.html#hives

 
At January 17, 2017 at 2:05 PM , Blogger Sara said...

Thank you!

 
At January 21, 2017 at 3:47 AM , Blogger M.L.Johnson said...

Is there a rating for sarcoidosis of the skin.

 
At January 26, 2017 at 7:29 AM , Blogger Min. Terry said...

is there a rating for athlete's foot.

Thanks

ct

 
At January 26, 2017 at 11:28 AM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

Sarcoidosis involving the skin is usually rated analogously under code 7821 for collagen-vascular diseases:

http://www.militarydisabilitymadeeasy.com/theskin.html#q

 
At January 26, 2017 at 11:30 AM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

Athlete's foot is not usually ratable since it is completely curable, but if severe cases cause scarring, then the scars can be rated.

http://www.militarydisabilitymadeeasy.com/scars.html

 
At May 10, 2017 at 9:34 PM , Blogger Steve said...

I was unaware that scars can be rated. I was sent to an outside hospital by the VA to have my right hip replaced. I have a pretty nasty scar, (about 7-9") on my right buttock. Is this even worth trying to get a rating or do they not accept this? Steve

 
At May 15, 2017 at 7:08 AM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

Hi Steve -

Linear scars, like surgical scars, are not ratable unless they are painful/unstable or cause other problems, like limited motion.

So unless your scar is painful/unstable, the highest rating you'll be given is 0%.

Linear Scars:

http://www.militarydisabilitymadeeasy.com/scars.html#linear

Painful or Unstable Scars:

http://www.militarydisabilitymadeeasy.com/scars.html#painful

 
At May 15, 2017 at 12:12 PM , Blogger Unknown said...

I have rheumatoid arthritis but not service connected. I tried twice and denied and was told that was final so I did not appeal but want to now. Because drs didn't word my treatment as arthritis, they denied it. I went to PT/Ortho clinic for treatment severals times and was treated for: lateral epicondylitis, muscle spasms and pain in my neck. I was diagnosed with RA by VA in 2006. My question is, can I file a claim for the above conditions or can it be connected to my RA. Please help!!

 
At May 19, 2017 at 5:34 PM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

Hi Kathie -

Applying for a condition that is diagnosed after discharge is never a good idea. The VA needs firm evidence that the condition is service-connected or they will just deny, as in your case.

You can definitely apply for lateral epicondylitis, muscle spasm, and neck pain since those were officially diagnosed in your medical records.

The VA may still not consider your RA as connected since it was diagnosed after service and cannot be caused by epicondylitis. There simply isn't medical evidence that supports epicondylitis as being a direct cause of RA.

 
At June 21, 2017 at 3:56 AM , Blogger LB said...

I have a question but its not for the skin but for the foot excuse the run-ons as i suck at punctuating but i have flat feet and had treatment while in service for it i got out applied for SC an it was denied because the condition wasn't chronic now i have another disease brought on from having flat feet which is Plantar Fasciitis if i was to submit the new evidence will they service connect me?

 
At June 23, 2017 at 11:28 AM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

It's possible, but not likely. If your flatfoot isn't already considered service-connected, they are not likely to consider it so because of a secondary condition that developed after service. The original condition usually has to qualify on its own. However, if you have strong evidence that the plantar fasciitis is a direct result of the flatfoot, then it may stand as evidence that the flatfoot was actually chronic. It's worth a shot to apply again, but don't be surprised if it is denied.

 
At June 23, 2017 at 11:11 PM , Blogger LB said...

Thank you for responding but i thought that would be an underlying condition on how it came to be.

 
At June 23, 2017 at 11:27 PM , Blogger LB said...

An to add on to that i also have retrocalcaneal enthesophytes on both feet whatever that means.

 
At June 26, 2017 at 10:04 AM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

The plantar fasciitis is secondary to the flatfoot, so yes, flatfoot would be the underlying condition. But if the underlying condition is not considered service-connected, they won't consider the secondary condition that developed after service to be service-connected.

Retrocalcaneal enthesophytes are boney growths on the heel around the achilles tendon. These can also be secondary to flatfoot.

 
At August 31, 2017 at 1:48 PM , Blogger Unknown said...

Is there a rating for skin discoloration or change in appearance after surgery. I had foot surgery and now the skin on my foot is darker and scaly.

 
At September 7, 2017 at 9:47 AM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

Hi Kenneth -

Depending on if it is related to your scar, it could be rated as a non-linear scar of the body.

http://www.militarydisabilitymadeeasy.com/scars.html#nonlinear

For discoloration, there are a couple of codes that cover it, but these are usually diagnosed conditions.

http://www.militarydisabilitymadeeasy.com/theskin.html#discolor

Has your physician figured out the exact reason for the discoloration and made a diagnosis? It'll most likely be rated on one of the discoloration codes, but depending on the exact diagnosis, another code might be more appropriate.

 
At April 11, 2018 at 8:41 PM , Blogger LB said...

Just a little update...I recently had a c&p exam to determine if my flat feet would be service connected due to aggravation seeing as it was diagnosed before i went active and the examiner stated that it was so i'm waiting to see now what the decision letter is going to say.

 
At April 13, 2018 at 9:23 AM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

Great. With the examiner claiming it (and hopefully putting it clearly in his notes), then you should have a positive outcome.

 
At April 13, 2018 at 3:04 PM , Blogger LB said...

Yeah I requested a copy as well (my fingers are crossed)!

 
At April 15, 2018 at 4:42 AM , Blogger Erik L said...

Dr. Johnson,

Thank you for creating this website. Glad you mention the difficulties with skin conditions. Interested in how the VA internally might handle something like the following and whether skin conditions and/or secondaries could qualify for a SMC given the following scenario:

Within the past 2.5 years, experienced a sudden onset that was diagnosed by derm as psoriasis and by rheum as psoriatic arthritis w/skin rash. Have been followed extensively with ample documentation (70+ records over 2+ years, failed medications, uniform modifications, joint/nail conditions etc) and at one point became fully erythrodermic. Since the erythrodermic episode, documents note an inability to sweat (entire body) and subsequent hyperthermia, susceptibility to heat.

Could the apparent autonomic neuropathy damage and loss of sweat glands be considered for SMC (k)?

 
At April 17, 2018 at 8:29 AM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

Hi Erik -

Unfortunately, these would not qualify for SMC-K. SMC-K is for loss of use of only specific body parts, like hands, feet, reproductive organs, etc. This does not include loss of use of the sweat glands.

http://www.militarydisabilitymadeeasy.com/specialmonthlycompensation.html#k

The VA would rate you directly for the skin condition (psoriasis), and then for rheumatoid arthritis and the affected joints.

 
At May 6, 2018 at 5:38 AM , Blogger Erik L said...

This comment has been removed by the author.

 
At May 6, 2018 at 5:38 AM , Blogger Erik L said...

Thank you for the reply!

 
At May 16, 2018 at 10:05 PM , Blogger LB said...

Granted!!!

 
At May 26, 2018 at 9:28 AM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

Great! Congrats!

 
At June 7, 2018 at 7:22 PM , Blogger BoPops said...

I have been diagnosed with Erythema Multiforma. It has been non stop for over year with an outbreak starting shortly after the conclusion of another. It covers the whole of the back of my hands and to a lesser degree up my arms. My knees are completely covered with an area the size of a small pancake and additional outbreaks on my legs and feet. Sunlight seems to be the main stimulant and steroid creams and prednisone only exasperated the problem. I’m being medically discharged after 20 years and am wondering if this would be considered debilitating? My hands hurt when closing them as it breaks the skin open and I cannot be on my knees at all. Thank you for your time.

 
At June 12, 2018 at 8:46 AM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

If you are being discharged because of this condition, then that is basically saying that it makes it impossible for you to do your job when active. The definition of "debilitating" for this code is that it makes you unable to do your job, so it should qualify as such.

http://www.militarydisabilitymadeeasy.com/theskin.html#i

 
At June 16, 2018 at 5:41 PM , Blogger BoPops said...

Thank you sir. Great website. Great service.

 
At July 7, 2018 at 4:40 PM , Blogger Tee Bmore said...

Hi,

I'm sorry, but I have to disagree with your statement: "Applying for a condition that is diagnosed after discharge is never a good idea." I was diagnosed with Endometriosis 9yrs after service, which resulted in a hysterectomy. A recent C&P established "direct service connections, based on my symptoms recorded in my service and post-service medical records. Sometimes military docs get it wrong, miss the obvious symptoms of something and misdiagnose patients. Sometimes, as the years pass, medical science improves and doctors know more. I am sure you know that diagnosis and onset dates do not always match. Therefore, there is no reason for a veteran to avoid submitting a claim for a condition diagnosed after service.

 
At July 13, 2018 at 7:58 AM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

You are correct. I didn't mean to infer that a claim shouldn't be submitted, just that when submitting a claim, it is always more likely to be granted if the conditions claimed are clearly reflected in your medical records. The majority of denials we see are because of listing conditions that weren't officially diagnosed until after service even though evidence of the condition did exist in service. Some conditions, like yours are more easily distinguished and corrected than others. Your case is the exception to the rule because of the type of condition, symptoms, etc. But in Kathie's case, hers was denied, as are most.

There is a higher likelihood of a successful claim if you first get your in-service diagnoses and symptoms approved and then apply for conditions diagnosed later as either increases (worsening of the original condition) or as secondary (caused by the original condition).

We encourage all veterans to always claim all conditions because you never know, and you do not want to miss out on potential benefits. However, you have to be careful how to do it if you want to improve your chances of a successful claim.

 
At July 20, 2018 at 10:30 AM , Blogger Unknown said...

Is basil cell carcinoma of the face/ears considered service related?

 
At July 21, 2018 at 6:34 AM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

Basal cell carcinoma is usually only granted service-connection if it was 1. diagnosed while on duty, 2. diagnosed within 1 year of separation, or 3. caused by exposure to circumstances/substances (like arsenic) while on duty.

You basically have to prove that your military service was more likely the cause than anything else to cause the condition.

 
At December 22, 2018 at 12:53 PM , Blogger D.C. said...

Hi Dr. Johnson. A question about Tinea Versicolor. It started during my time in service 15 years ago and I went for treatment while deployed and was prescribed oral and topical medication so I would think my medical records would show that. I've sought treatment over the years including last year or the year before and medications have never caused it to go away. It's on my neck, arms chest and back. Would this be rated under the basic rating and would I have any difficulties in the process with it? Thank you.

 
At December 26, 2018 at 5:24 PM , Blogger Military Disability Made Easy said...

As long as you have those service treatment records that show the original diagnosis and continued treatment of the condition, you shouldn't have a problem getting service-connection and a rating.

It would be rated analogously under code 7813 for dermatophytosis on the Basic Rating System, or Scars/Disfigurement.

http://www.militarydisabilitymadeeasy.com/theskin.html#h

 

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