Diagnostic Code 7831 · 38 CFR §4.118
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing patchy hair loss. Unlike scarring alopecia, the follicles are not destroyed — hair may regrow, but the condition typically recurs. Severe forms include alopecia totalis (total scalp hair loss) and alopecia universalis (total body hair loss). Military service stress is a well-documented trigger, and many veterans develop alopecia areata during or shortly after high-stress service periods.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Loss of hair limited to the scalp and face only. |
| 10% | Loss of all body hair — alopecia universalis. This is the maximum schedular rating under DC 7831. |
Dermatology examination confirming alopecia areata as the diagnosis is important. Documentation of the extent of hair loss (patchy, totalis, universalis) affects the rating. Treatment records showing therapies attempted (topical immunotherapy, steroid injections, JAK inhibitors) demonstrate ongoing active disease. Service records correlating onset with service stress or events help establish the nexus. Photographs documenting the hair loss are very helpful.
Yes. Stress is one of the best-documented triggers for alopecia areata. The condition often appears during or immediately after periods of intense physical or emotional stress. Many veterans develop their first episode during deployment, intensive training, or other high-stress service periods. Document the timeline of onset relative to stressful service events.
The DC 7831 rating schedule is widely criticized as inadequate. However, you can pursue higher compensation through DC 7800 disfigurement ratings (up to 80%) and through secondary condition claims for mental health effects. A comprehensive approach combining these different codes often yields a much higher combined rating.