Dermatomyositis

DC 7821Skin38 CFR 4.118, DC 7821

An autoimmune condition that causes a distinctive skin rash along with muscle weakness. The rash often appears on the eyelids, knuckles, elbows, and chest. The VA rates the skin portion like dermatitis, and muscle weakness may be rated separately.

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 7821

Rating range

0% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7821. 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 therapy
Continuous immunosuppressive medication
Severe calcinosis (calcium deposits under skin)
Significant impact on daily activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not claiming muscle weakness separately — dermatomyositis causes muscle weakness that should be rated under the musculoskeletal system in addition to the skin rating. Get muscle strength testing documented.
⚠Missing the cancer screening — dermatomyositis is associated with an increased risk of cancer. Get screened, and if cancer is found, claim it as a secondary condition.
⚠Not documenting the distinctive rash features — the heliotrope rash (purple eyelids) and Gottron papules (bumps on knuckles) are hallmark signs. Make sure these are specifically noted in your medical records.
⚠Forgetting lung involvement — dermatomyositis can cause interstitial lung disease. Get pulmonary function testing and claim any lung involvement separately.

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…

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7821

Rating range

0% – 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 therapy
Continuous immunosuppressive medication
Severe calcinosis (calcium deposits under skin)
Significant impact on daily activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not claiming muscle weakness separately — dermatomyositis causes muscle weakness that should be rated under the musculoskeletal system in addition to the skin rating. Get muscle strength testing documented.

⚠Missing the cancer screening — dermatomyositis is associated with an increased risk of cancer. Get screened, and if cancer is found, claim it as a secondary condition.

⚠Not documenting the distinctive rash features — the heliotrope rash (purple eyelids) and Gottron papules (bumps on knuckles) are hallmark signs. Make sure these are specifically noted in your medical records.

⚠Forgetting lung involvement — dermatomyositis can cause interstitial lung disease. Get pulmonary function testing and claim any lung involvement separately.