Xerosis
Xerosis is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 7806 in the Skin category. Maximum rating: 60%.
Skin Condition Rating Reference
Body Surface Area - Rule of Nines
Source: 38 CFR ยง 4.118 - Schedule of Skin Ratings
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 60% | More than 40% of the entire body or more than 40% of exposed areas affected, OR constant or near-constant systemic therapy such as corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs required during the past 12-month period |
| 30% | 20-40% of the entire body or 20-40% of exposed areas affected, OR systemic therapy such as corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs required for a total duration of 6 weeks or more, but not constantly, 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 such as corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs required for a total duration of less than 6 weeks during the past 12-month period |
| 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 |
Important Notes
SYSTEMIC THERAPY includes oral corticosteroids, injectable biologics, and phototherapy. Does NOT include topical creams/ointments. A veteran with small resistant patch requiring biologic injections every 8 weeks may qualify for 60% based on 'constant/near-constant systemic therapy' even with low BSA. Exposed areas = head, face, neck, hands.
Filing Tips
Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.
Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.
Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.
Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.
Review the rating criteria for DC 7806 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.