Erythromelalgia

DC 7119Cardiovascular38 CFR 4.104, DC 7119

A rare vascular condition causing episodes of burning pain, redness, and increased skin temperature in the extremities, most commonly the feet and hands. Episodes are typically triggered by warmth, exercise, or standing. The VA rates erythromelalgia based on the frequency and severity of flares, skin changes, and how much the condition limits your daily activities.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type, severity, and frequency of your symptoms. The examiner will evaluate your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7119

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.104, DC 7119. 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 constant or near-constant symptoms with severe, unrelenting burning pain. You have developed tissue damage including ulceration or gangrene. You are unable to stand or walk without severe pain and are precluded from more than sedentary activity.

What the VA looks for

Constant or near-constant severe burning pain
Tissue damage including ulceration or gangrene
Inability to stand or walk without severe pain
Precluded from more than sedentary activity
Refractory to all treatments attempted

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not photographing flares in progress — erythromelalgia causes visible redness, swelling, and skin temperature changes that may not be present during a C&P exam. Time-stamped photos comparing affected extremities to unaffected areas are valuable.
⚠Not documenting the impact of heat and activity triggers — keep a diary noting what triggers episodes (standing, walking, warm environments, wearing shoes) and how long they last. This demonstrates the functional impact on daily life.
⚠Not getting thermal imaging or skin temperature measurements — objective temperature differences between affected and unaffected areas can confirm the diagnosis and severity when symptoms fluctuate.
⚠Not requesting evaluation by a vascular specialist or dermatologist — erythromelalgia is rare and often misdiagnosed. A specialist diagnosis carries significant weight with the VA.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Artery and Vein Conditions

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Condition Rating Guides

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Erythromelalgia

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type, severity, and frequency of your symptoms. The examiner will evaluate your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7119

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Constant or near-constant severe burning pain
Tissue damage including ulceration or gangrene
Inability to stand or walk without severe pain
Precluded from more than sedentary activity
Refractory to all treatments attempted

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not photographing flares in progress — erythromelalgia causes visible redness, swelling, and skin temperature changes that may not be present during a C&P exam. Time-stamped photos comparing affected extremities to unaffected areas are valuable.

⚠Not documenting the impact of heat and activity triggers — keep a diary noting what triggers episodes (standing, walking, warm environments, wearing shoes) and how long they last. This demonstrates the functional impact on daily life.

⚠Not getting thermal imaging or skin temperature measurements — objective temperature differences between affected and unaffected areas can confirm the diagnosis and severity when symptoms fluctuate.

⚠Not requesting evaluation by a vascular specialist or dermatologist — erythromelalgia is rare and often misdiagnosed. A specialist diagnosis carries significant weight with the VA.