Diagnostic Code 7813 · 38 CFR §4.118
DC 7813 covers dermatophytosis, which includes all types of fungal skin infections: athlete's foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), ringworm of the body (tinea corporis), scalp ringworm (tinea capitis), and nail fungus (onychomycosis). These infections are extremely common among veterans due to shared living quarters, communal showers, hot humid environments during deployments, and prolonged wear of boots and uniforms. Many veterans develop chronic or recurring fungal infections that began during service.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Less than 5% of the entire body or less than 5% of exposed areas affected, AND no more than topical therapy required during the past 12-month period. |
| 10% | At least 5% but less than 20% of the entire body, OR at least 5% but less than 20% of exposed areas affected, OR intermittent systemic therapy (corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs) required for a total duration of less than 6 weeks during the past 12 months. |
| 30% | 20 to 40% of the entire body or 20 to 40% of exposed areas affected, OR systemic therapy (corticosteroids or other immunosuppressives) required for a total duration of 6 weeks or more, but not constantly, during the past 12 months. |
| 60% | More than 40% of the entire body or more than 40% of exposed areas affected, OR constant or near-constant systemic therapy (corticosteroids or other immunosuppressives) required during the past 12 months. |
Clinical examination or culture confirming the fungal infection establishes the diagnosis. Service treatment records showing the condition began during service are important. Records of ongoing treatment, especially systemic antifungal medications, demonstrate severity. Photographs of affected areas during active infection help document the extent. If claiming toenail fungus, photographs showing the nail changes are helpful.
If it recurs frequently and requires ongoing treatment, yes. Many veterans develop chronic fungal infections in service that persist for decades. The rating depends on the body area affected and treatment needed. Even a 10% rating adds up, and the condition can serve as a basis for secondary claims.
Onychomycosis is covered under DC 7813. While toenail fungus alone typically receives a lower rating, if it requires systemic antifungal treatment (oral medication), the treatment itself supports a moderate rating. Document the number of nails affected and the treatment required.