Cystic Acne

DC 7828Skin38 CFR 4.118, DC 7828

Severe acne with deep, painful cysts under the skin. The VA rates cystic acne based on the extent and severity of involvement.

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 7828

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7828. 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 acne affecting 40%+ of face and neck
Multiple deep inflamed nodules and cysts
Significant scarring from cystic acne
Photographs showing extensive facial involvement
Treatment records including Accutane or systemic antibiotics

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not distinguishing between superficial and deep acne — only deep acne (nodules and cysts) qualifies for a compensable rating. Make sure the examiner documents the depth of your lesions.
⚠Forgetting to claim acne scars separately — cystic acne often leaves significant scars. After the acne itself is rated, the resulting scars may qualify for additional ratings under DC 7800 (face) or DC 7801-7805 (body).
⚠Not documenting all affected areas — cystic acne on the back, chest, and shoulders counts under the 10% criteria even if your face is less severely affected.
⚠Not connecting to military service — acne can be triggered or worsened by stress, helmets, chemical exposure, or humid conditions during service. Document the onset and worsening timeline.

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 7828

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 acne affecting 40%+ of face and neck
Multiple deep inflamed nodules and cysts
Significant scarring from cystic acne
Photographs showing extensive facial involvement
Treatment records including Accutane or systemic antibiotics

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not distinguishing between superficial and deep acne — only deep acne (nodules and cysts) qualifies for a compensable rating. Make sure the examiner documents the depth of your lesions.

⚠Forgetting to claim acne scars separately — cystic acne often leaves significant scars. After the acne itself is rated, the resulting scars may qualify for additional ratings under DC 7800 (face) or DC 7801-7805 (body).

⚠Not documenting all affected areas — cystic acne on the back, chest, and shoulders counts under the 10% criteria even if your face is less severely affected.

⚠Not connecting to military service — acne can be triggered or worsened by stress, helmets, chemical exposure, or humid conditions during service. Document the onset and worsening timeline.