Diagnostic Code 7817 · 38 CFR §4.118
Exfoliative dermatitis (erythroderma) is a severe inflammatory skin condition where most or all of the skin becomes red, swollen, and begins peeling off in sheets or flakes. It can develop as a progression of other skin conditions (psoriasis, eczema, drug reactions) or from unknown causes. This is a serious condition that can affect body temperature regulation, cause protein and fluid loss, and increase infection risk. Veterans may develop it as a progression of service-connected skin conditions or from medication reactions during service.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Any extent of involvement at any time during the past 12-month period. |
| 30% | Generalized involvement with itching, exfoliation, or with hyperpigmentation in widespread areas; OR systemic therapy required for less than 6 weeks in the past 12-month period. |
| 60% | Generalized involvement of the skin without systemic manifestations, OR constant or near-constant systemic therapy for 6 weeks or more in the past 12-month period. |
| 100% | Generalized involvement of the skin, plus systemic manifestations (fever, weight loss, hypoproteinemia), AND constant or near-constant systemic therapy (corticosteroids, immunosuppressives, retinoids, PUVA, UV-B light). |
Dermatology records confirming the diagnosis of erythroderma are necessary. Records of the treatment regimen, especially systemic medications, are essential for determining the rating level. Lab work showing protein levels, blood counts, and other systemic effects supports higher ratings. Hospitalization records if the condition required inpatient care are very important. Documentation of the underlying cause connects it to service.
DC 7817 has its own specific rating criteria that do not depend on body surface area percentage like most skin codes. Instead, it focuses on the need for systemic therapy, the presence of systemic symptoms, and hospitalization needs. This often results in higher ratings than the general skin criteria would give.
Yes. Erythroderma commonly develops as a progression of psoriasis, eczema, or drug reactions. If you have a service-connected skin condition that progresses to erythroderma, the erythroderma is secondary to your existing condition and should be straightforward to service-connect.