Diseases of keratinization (DC 7824)

Body system: SkinRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.118DBQ: DBQ DERM Skin Diseases

DC 7824 covers diseases of keratinization, including ichthyoses, Darier's disease, and palmoplantar keratoderma. The VA rates DC 7824 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 keratinization disorder 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 keratinization disorder 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: keratinization disorder 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 keratinization disorder 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.