Chronic Mastitis

DC 7628Gynecological/Breast38 CFR 4.116, DC 7628

Recurring inflammation and infection of the breast tissue, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes abscess formation. Chronic mastitis can develop from breastfeeding during service, breast surgery, or other causes. The VA rates it based on how often episodes occur and how much treatment you need.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how often symptoms occur and how severe each episode is. The examiner will ask about the frequency, duration, and intensity of your episodes, as well as how they affect your ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7628

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.116, DC 7628. 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 frequent severe mastitis episodes requiring hospitalization, IV antibiotics, surgical drainage, or your condition has caused permanent breast damage.

What the VA looks for

Hospitalization for severe mastitis or breast abscess
Surgical drainage or incision and drainage procedures
Breast fistula formation
Significant scarring or tissue loss
Frequent severe episodes despite preventive treatment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting each episode of mastitis with treatment records — a pattern of recurring infections is stronger evidence than a single episode.
⚠Failing to connect the initial mastitis to military service — breastfeeding during active duty, field conditions, or breast surgery during service are all valid in-service events.
⚠Not filing for breast scarring separately — abscess drainage scars and surgical scars can be rated independently under the scar criteria.
⚠Overlooking secondary conditions — chronic pain from mastitis can lead to depression, and antibiotic-resistant infections may require specialized treatment.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Gynecological Conditions and Disorders of the Breast

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Chronic Mastitis

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7628

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have frequent severe mastitis episodes requiring hospitalization, IV antibiotics, surgical drainage, or your condition has caused permanent breast damage.

What the VA looks for

Hospitalization for severe mastitis or breast abscess
Surgical drainage or incision and drainage procedures
Breast fistula formation
Significant scarring or tissue loss
Frequent severe episodes despite preventive treatment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting each episode of mastitis with treatment records — a pattern of recurring infections is stronger evidence than a single episode.

⚠Failing to connect the initial mastitis to military service — breastfeeding during active duty, field conditions, or breast surgery during service are all valid in-service events.

⚠Not filing for breast scarring separately — abscess drainage scars and surgical scars can be rated independently under the scar criteria.

⚠Overlooking secondary conditions — chronic pain from mastitis can lead to depression, and antibiotic-resistant infections may require specialized treatment.