Fournier Gangrene Residuals

DC 7599-7528Genitourinary38 CFR 4.115b, DC 7599-7528

Lasting problems after a severe, life-threatening infection of the genital and perineal area that destroys tissue. The VA rates residuals based on how much tissue was lost, whether you have ongoing voiding or bowel problems, scarring, and whether you needed reconstructive surgery.

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 7599-7528

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.115b, DC 7599-7528. 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

Your Fournier gangrene caused devastating tissue loss with total loss of function in the affected area. You have severe incontinence of urine or stool requiring an appliance, complete loss of genital tissue, or your residuals preclude you from more than light seated activity.

What the VA looks for

Complete loss of genital tissue or function
Urinary or fecal diversion (colostomy, urostomy)
Multiple reconstructive surgeries with poor outcome
Inability to perform more than sedentary activity
Ongoing chronic infection or wound complications

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not preserving all surgical records — debridement operative reports, wound measurements, and photographs document the extent of tissue destruction and are critical evidence.
⚠Not filing for each affected body system separately — Fournier gangrene can damage the urinary tract, bowel, reproductive organs, and skin. Each system with residual dysfunction may warrant a separate rating.
⚠Not documenting psychological impact — survivors of Fournier gangrene commonly develop PTSD, depression, and body image issues that may warrant separate mental health ratings.
⚠Not connecting the infection to service — common pathways include surgical complications during service, diabetes-related immune compromise, or injuries sustained during military duties.
⚠Not requesting scar ratings — painful or disfiguring scars from debridement and reconstruction are separately ratable under 38 CFR 4.118.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Male Reproductive System Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Fournier Gangrene Residuals

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7599-7528

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Complete loss of genital tissue or function
Urinary or fecal diversion (colostomy, urostomy)
Multiple reconstructive surgeries with poor outcome
Inability to perform more than sedentary activity
Ongoing chronic infection or wound complications

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not preserving all surgical records — debridement operative reports, wound measurements, and photographs document the extent of tissue destruction and are critical evidence.

⚠Not filing for each affected body system separately — Fournier gangrene can damage the urinary tract, bowel, reproductive organs, and skin. Each system with residual dysfunction may warrant a separate rating.

⚠Not documenting psychological impact — survivors of Fournier gangrene commonly develop PTSD, depression, and body image issues that may warrant separate mental health ratings.

⚠Not connecting the infection to service — common pathways include surgical complications during service, diabetes-related immune compromise, or injuries sustained during military duties.

⚠Not requesting scar ratings — painful or disfiguring scars from debridement and reconstruction are separately ratable under 38 CFR 4.118.