Chronic Non-Healing Ulcer

DC 7801Skin38 CFR 4.118, DC 7801

An open sore on your skin that does not heal within a normal timeframe, often on the legs or feet. These ulcers may be caused by poor blood flow, diabetes, injuries, or infections during service. The VA rates them based on size, depth, treatment needs, and how much they limit your daily activities.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 7801

Rating range

10% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7801. 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 a chronic ulcer covering 72 square inches (465 sq cm) or more, or a deep ulcer with bone or tendon involvement, or one that severely limits your ability to walk or work.

What the VA looks for

Ulcer measurements showing 72+ square inches
Bone or tendon involvement documented (imaging)
Severe functional limitation documented
Hospitalization or surgical intervention records
Inability to perform occupational tasks due to ulcer

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the duration of non-healing — the VA needs evidence that your ulcer has persisted for at least 3 months despite treatment. Keep all wound care visit records.
⚠Failing to get vascular studies — chronic non-healing ulcers are often caused by vascular insufficiency. Doppler studies and ankle-brachial index (ABI) testing can establish the underlying cause.
⚠Not claiming secondary conditions — if the ulcer is caused by a service-connected condition like diabetes or peripheral vascular disease, file it as secondary.
⚠Not photographing the ulcer at every medical visit — regular photos documenting size, depth, and drainage over time are powerful evidence.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Skin Diseases

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Chronic Non-Healing Ulcer

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7801

Rating range

10% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have a chronic ulcer covering 72 square inches (465 sq cm) or more, or a deep ulcer with bone or tendon involvement, or one that severely limits your ability to walk or work.

What the VA looks for

Ulcer measurements showing 72+ square inches
Bone or tendon involvement documented (imaging)
Severe functional limitation documented
Hospitalization or surgical intervention records
Inability to perform occupational tasks due to ulcer

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the duration of non-healing — the VA needs evidence that your ulcer has persisted for at least 3 months despite treatment. Keep all wound care visit records.

⚠Failing to get vascular studies — chronic non-healing ulcers are often caused by vascular insufficiency. Doppler studies and ankle-brachial index (ABI) testing can establish the underlying cause.

⚠Not claiming secondary conditions — if the ulcer is caused by a service-connected condition like diabetes or peripheral vascular disease, file it as secondary.

⚠Not photographing the ulcer at every medical visit — regular photos documenting size, depth, and drainage over time are powerful evidence.