Granuloma Annulare

DC 7820Skin38 CFR 4.118, DC 7820

A chronic skin condition that causes raised, reddish or skin-colored bumps in ring-shaped patterns, most commonly on the hands, feet, elbows, and knees. Rated by analogy using the dermatitis criteria.

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 7820

Rating range

0% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7820. 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
Disseminated granuloma annulare
Multiple failed therapies documented
Impact on daily activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the generalized form — localized granuloma annulare may not meet the area thresholds, but the generalized form can affect large portions of the body and qualify for higher ratings.
⚠Not getting a biopsy — granuloma annulare is confirmed by skin biopsy. Without pathology confirmation, your claim may be weaker.
⚠Not associating with diabetes — generalized granuloma annulare is associated with diabetes mellitus. If you have both, establishing this connection can strengthen both claims.
⚠Underestimating exposed area involvement — lesions on the hands are on exposed areas, which have a lower threshold for meeting percentage criteria.

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 7820

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
Disseminated granuloma annulare
Multiple failed therapies documented
Impact on daily activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the generalized form — localized granuloma annulare may not meet the area thresholds, but the generalized form can affect large portions of the body and qualify for higher ratings.

⚠Not getting a biopsy — granuloma annulare is confirmed by skin biopsy. Without pathology confirmation, your claim may be weaker.

⚠Not associating with diabetes — generalized granuloma annulare is associated with diabetes mellitus. If you have both, establishing this connection can strengthen both claims.

⚠Underestimating exposed area involvement — lesions on the hands are on exposed areas, which have a lower threshold for meeting percentage criteria.