Chloracne

DC 7829Skin38 CFR 4.118, DC 7829

A severe skin condition caused by exposure to certain chemicals, including Agent Orange (dioxin). It causes blackheads, cysts, and nodules, especially on the face and behind the ears. Chloracne is a presumptive condition for Vietnam-era veterans exposed to Agent Orange.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 7829

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7829. 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

You have deep acne (deep inflamed nodules and pus-filled cysts) affecting 40 percent or more of your face and neck.

What the VA looks for

Deep chloracne affecting 40%+ of face and neck
Extensive nodules, cysts, and scarring
Documented Agent Orange or chemical exposure
Photographs showing extensive facial involvement
Onset within one year of exposure (for presumptive)

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not knowing chloracne is a presumptive condition — if you served in Vietnam or were exposed to Agent Orange, chloracne is presumptively service-connected. You do not need to prove a direct link, but it must have manifested within one year of exposure.
⚠Confusing chloracne with regular acne — chloracne is specifically caused by chemical (dioxin/Agent Orange) exposure. The clinical pattern differs, typically involving comedones behind the ears and on the face.
⚠Not claiming residual scars — chloracne causes permanent scarring. Rate the scars separately under DC 7800 for facial disfigurement.
⚠Missing the one-year manifestation window for presumptive service connection — chloracne must appear within one year of last exposure to qualify for presumptive status under 38 CFR 3.309(e).

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Skin Diseases

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

Condition Rating Guides

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Chloracne

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7829

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have deep acne (deep inflamed nodules and pus-filled cysts) affecting 40 percent or more of your face and neck.

What the VA looks for

Deep chloracne affecting 40%+ of face and neck
Extensive nodules, cysts, and scarring
Documented Agent Orange or chemical exposure
Photographs showing extensive facial involvement
Onset within one year of exposure (for presumptive)

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not knowing chloracne is a presumptive condition — if you served in Vietnam or were exposed to Agent Orange, chloracne is presumptively service-connected. You do not need to prove a direct link, but it must have manifested within one year of exposure.

⚠Confusing chloracne with regular acne — chloracne is specifically caused by chemical (dioxin/Agent Orange) exposure. The clinical pattern differs, typically involving comedones behind the ears and on the face.

⚠Not claiming residual scars — chloracne causes permanent scarring. Rate the scars separately under DC 7800 for facial disfigurement.

⚠Missing the one-year manifestation window for presumptive service connection — chloracne must appear within one year of last exposure to qualify for presumptive status under 38 CFR 3.309(e).