Bullous Disorders (Pemphigus)

DC 7815Skin38 CFR 4.118, DC 7815

A group of autoimmune skin conditions that cause blisters on the skin and mucous membranes. Pemphigus vulgaris is the most common type. The VA rates it based on body area affected and treatment needed.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type and intensity of treatment you require. Higher ratings correspond to more aggressive treatment regimens, such as daily medication, insulin dependence, or the need for ongoing medical management.

Diagnostic code

DC 7815

Rating range

10% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7815. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

More than 40 percent of your body or exposed areas are affected, or you need constant or near-constant systemic therapy in the past year.

What the VA looks for

Body surface area more than 40% affected
Constant or near-constant systemic immunosuppressive therapy
Hospitalizations for flares
Oral mucosa involvement affecting eating
Secondary infections from blistering

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting oral and mucosal involvement — pemphigus often affects the mouth, throat, and other mucous membranes, which significantly impacts quality of life and may warrant a higher rating.
⚠Not understanding that most pemphigus patients require constant systemic therapy — drugs like prednisone, mycophenolate, or rituximab used for pemphigus are systemic immunosuppressives, potentially qualifying you for the 60% level.
⚠Failing to get a biopsy — a skin biopsy with direct immunofluorescence is the gold standard for confirming pemphigus and strengthens your claim.
⚠Not documenting secondary infections — blistering skin is prone to bacterial infections that require antibiotics, adding to the overall disability picture.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Skin Diseases

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7815

Rating range

10% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

More than 40 percent of your body or exposed areas are affected, or you need constant or near-constant systemic therapy in the past year.

What the VA looks for

Body surface area more than 40% affected
Constant or near-constant systemic immunosuppressive therapy
Hospitalizations for flares
Oral mucosa involvement affecting eating
Secondary infections from blistering

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting oral and mucosal involvement — pemphigus often affects the mouth, throat, and other mucous membranes, which significantly impacts quality of life and may warrant a higher rating.

⚠Not understanding that most pemphigus patients require constant systemic therapy — drugs like prednisone, mycophenolate, or rituximab used for pemphigus are systemic immunosuppressives, potentially qualifying you for the 60% level.

⚠Failing to get a biopsy — a skin biopsy with direct immunofluorescence is the gold standard for confirming pemphigus and strengthens your claim.

⚠Not documenting secondary infections — blistering skin is prone to bacterial infections that require antibiotics, adding to the overall disability picture.