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Eczema / Dermatitis
DC 7806 | 38 C.F.R. 4.118, DC 7806 | M21-1, Part IV.ii.10
OVERVIEW
Eczema and dermatitis are rated under DC 7806 at 38 C.F.R. 4.118 based on the percentage of body and exposed areas affected, and whether systemic therapy (corticosteroids or immunosuppressives) is required. Skin conditions are commonly claimed by veterans exposed to chemicals, herbicides, or environmental irritants during service. The key to higher ratings is documenting the total body surface area affected and the duration of systemic treatment required.
RATING CRITERIA (4 LEVELS)
0% -- Less than 5% of the entire body or less than 5% of exposed areas affected, and no more than topical therapy required.
Minimal skin involvement with topical treatment only.
10% -- At least 5% but less than 20% of the entire body, or at least 5% but less than 20% of exposed areas, or intermittent systemic therapy required for less than 6 weeks in a 12-month period.
Moderate involvement or brief systemic treatment.
30% -- 20-40% of the entire body or 20-40% of exposed areas, or systemic therapy required for 6+ weeks but not constantly in a 12-month period.
Significant skin involvement or extended systemic therapy.
60% -- More than 40% of the entire body or more than 40% of exposed areas, or constant or near-constant systemic therapy in a 12-month period.
Severe, widespread condition requiring ongoing systemic treatment.
KEY EVIDENCE TO GATHER
-Dermatology records documenting diagnosis, body surface area affected, and treatment
-Photos of affected areas (taken during flare-ups, not remission)
-Pharmacy records showing topical and systemic medication prescriptions
-Service records documenting chemical or environmental exposure
-Buddy statements describing visibility and frequency of flare-ups
SECONDARY CONDITIONS (2 MAPPED)
Depression / AnxietyMODERATE
DC 9434/9400
Visible skin conditions cause social embarrassment, isolation, and mental health decline.
Sleep DisturbanceMODERATE
DC 9422/8099
Chronic itching from eczema disrupts sleep quality. Documented in dermatology literature.
C&P EXAM TIPS (0)
EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026