Psoriasis

DC 7816Skin38 CFR 4.118, DC 7816

A chronic autoimmune condition that causes thick, red, scaly patches on the skin. The VA rates psoriasis based on how much of your body is affected and what treatment you need.

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 7816

Rating range

0% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7816. 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 biologic medication (Humira, Enbrel, etc.)
Failed multiple prior therapies
Documented impact on daily activities and employment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding that biologic medications (Humira, Enbrel, Cosentyx, etc.) are systemic immunosuppressive therapy — if you take a biologic continuously, you likely qualify for the 60% rating.
⚠Not documenting flares — psoriasis fluctuates. Photograph your worst flares and have your doctor estimate body surface area during those times.
⚠Forgetting to claim psoriatic arthritis separately — about 30% of psoriasis patients develop psoriatic arthritis, which is rated separately under the musculoskeletal system.
⚠Not counting scalp involvement in body surface area — the scalp is often overlooked during examination but can be a significant percentage of affected area.

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 7816

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 biologic medication (Humira, Enbrel, etc.)
Failed multiple prior therapies
Documented impact on daily activities and employment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding that biologic medications (Humira, Enbrel, Cosentyx, etc.) are systemic immunosuppressive therapy — if you take a biologic continuously, you likely qualify for the 60% rating.

⚠Not documenting flares — psoriasis fluctuates. Photograph your worst flares and have your doctor estimate body surface area during those times.

⚠Forgetting to claim psoriatic arthritis separately — about 30% of psoriasis patients develop psoriatic arthritis, which is rated separately under the musculoskeletal system.

⚠Not counting scalp involvement in body surface area — the scalp is often overlooked during examination but can be a significant percentage of affected area.