Cutaneous manifestations of collagen-vascular diseases not listed elsewhere (DC 7821)

Body system: SkinRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.118

DC 7821 covers cutaneous manifestations of collagen-vascular diseases not listed under another diagnostic code, including scleroderma, calcinosis cutis, subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus, and dermatomyositis. The VA rates DC 7821 under the General Rating Formula for the Skin (38 CFR § 4.118): 0%, 10%, 30%, or 60% depending on the percent of the entire body or exposed areas affected by characteristic lesions, and whether systemic therapy (corticosteroids, biologics, PUVA, or other immunosuppressives) was required over the past 12 months.

Rating levels

  • 60% — You qualify for 60% if your cutaneous collagen-vascular disease is severe enough to meet either: characteristic lesions cover more than 40% of your entire body or more than 40% of your exposed areas (face, neck, hands); or you have needed strong systemic medications (corticosteroids, phototherapy, retinoids, biologics, PUVA, or other immunosuppressives) almost constantly over the past 12 months.
  • 30% — You qualify for 30% if either: characteristic cutaneous collagen-vascular disease lesions cover 20% to 40% of your entire body or 20% to 40% of your exposed areas; or you have needed systemic medications (corticosteroids, phototherapy, retinoids, biologics, PUVA, or other immunosuppressives) for a total of 6 weeks or more, but not constantly, over the past 12 months.
  • 10% — You qualify for 10% if any of these apply: cutaneous collagen-vascular disease lesions cover at least 5% but less than 20% of your entire body; lesions cover at least 5% but less than 20% of your exposed areas; or you have needed intermittent systemic medications (corticosteroids, phototherapy, retinoids, biologics, PUVA, or other immunosuppressives) for a total of less than 6 weeks over the past 12 months.
  • 0% — You qualify for 0% (non-compensable) if both: you have needed no more than topical creams or ointments over the past 12 months; and your cutaneous collagen-vascular disease lesions cover less than 5% of either your entire body or your exposed areas. The condition is service-connected but not currently disabling enough for monthly compensation.

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.