Colitis, ulcerative (DC 7323)

Body system: Digestive SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.114DBQ: DBQ GI Intestinal (other than surgical or infectious)

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulceration of the colon and rectum, producing diarrhea, rectal bleeding, abdominal cramping, urgency, weight loss, and fatigue. The VA does not maintain a separate ladder for ulcerative colitis. Instead, 38 CFR § 4.114 directs raters to evaluate this condition using the criteria for Crohn's disease and undifferentiated inflammatory bowel disease (DC 7326), based on symptom severity, treatment requirements, and hospitalization frequency.

Rating levels

  • -1% — Ulcerative colitis is rated using the same criteria as Crohn's disease and other inflammatory bowel disease (DC 7326). The VA evaluates symptom severity, treatment intensity (oral / topical agents vs. immunosuppressants or biologics), hospitalization frequency, and functional impact. Read the DC 7326 rating tiles for the full 10% to 100% ladder.

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.