Diagnostic Code 7830 · 38 CFR §4.118
Scarring alopecia (cicatricial alopecia) is permanent hair loss caused by destruction of hair follicles, which are replaced by scar tissue. Unlike common pattern baldness, the hair cannot regrow because the follicles are destroyed. This can result from burn injuries to the scalp, traumatic wounds, infections that damage hair follicles, chemical exposure, or inflammatory skin conditions. Veterans commonly develop scarring alopecia from combat injuries, training accidents, burns, or as complications of scalp infections during service.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Scarring alopecia (permanent hair loss with scarring) affecting less than 20% of the scalp. |
| 10% | Scarring alopecia affecting 20–40% of the scalp. |
| 20% | Scarring alopecia affecting more than 40% of the scalp. This is the maximum schedular rating under DC 7830; consider whether DC 7800 (head/face/neck disfigurement) yields a higher rating. |
Dermatology examination documenting the extent of scalp involvement as a percentage is essential. Biopsy confirming destruction of hair follicles (scarring alopecia versus non-scarring types) provides definitive proof. Photographs clearly showing the areas of permanent hair loss help document the extent. Service records of the injury, burn, or condition that caused the hair loss establish the nexus.
No. Common androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness) is not a ratable condition because it is a normal variant, not a disease or injury. Scarring alopecia is different — it results from destruction of hair follicles by injury, burns, infections, or inflammation. The distinction matters and a biopsy can confirm which type you have.
Yes. Burn scars on the scalp that destroyed hair follicles are a classic cause of scarring alopecia. The hair loss is rated under DC 7830, and the burn scar itself can be rated under DC 7800 for disfigurement and DC 7804 if it is painful. These are separate ratings that combine.