Diagnostic Code 7822 · 38 CFR §4.118
DC 7822 covers papulosquamous skin disorders not specifically listed under other codes. Papulosquamous conditions produce raised, scaly patches on the skin. This category includes conditions like pityriasis rosea, lichen planus, pityriasis rubra pilaris, and other scaling skin conditions that do not fall under psoriasis, eczema, or other named codes. Veterans may develop these conditions triggered by stress, environmental exposures, or infections encountered during military 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. |
Dermatology records with a specific diagnosis are important. Biopsy results can confirm the specific condition. Photographs during flares document the extent of involvement. Treatment records showing all medications used demonstrate the severity. Service records connecting onset to service factors establish the nexus.
A more specific diagnosis can help your claim. Ask your dermatologist whether your condition fits a specific papulosquamous disorder. A biopsy can often determine the exact condition, which helps the VA rater select the correct diagnostic code and rating criteria.
Many papulosquamous conditions are stress-responsive — they flare during periods of high stress. If your condition worsens during stressful periods, this pattern supports the connection between military service stress and the condition onset or aggravation.