Vitiligo

DC 7823Skin38 CFR 4.118, DC 7823

A condition where patches of skin lose their color and become white because the cells that make pigment (melanocytes) are destroyed. The VA rates vitiligo based on how much of your body is affected, with a separate higher rating if the head, face, or neck is involved.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 7823

Rating range

0% – 10%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7823. 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 vitiligo affects exposed areas (face, neck, hands).

What the VA looks for

Vitiligo affecting face, neck, or hands
Depigmented patches visible on exposed skin
Photographs of affected exposed areas
Dermatology diagnosis and treatment records

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting exposed area involvement — the entire rating hinges on whether your face, neck, or hands are affected. Make sure the examiner specifically examines and documents all exposed areas.
⚠Not claiming disfigurement separately — if vitiligo on the face meets the characteristics of disfigurement under DC 7800, you may qualify for a higher separate rating.
⚠Forgetting secondary psychological effects — vitiligo, especially on the face, commonly causes depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal that may warrant a separate mental health claim.
⚠Not using Wood's lamp examination — a Wood's lamp (UV light) exam can reveal vitiligo patches that are not visible under normal lighting. Request this during your C&P exam.

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…

Vitiligo

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7823

Rating range

0% – 10%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your vitiligo affects exposed areas (face, neck, hands).

What the VA looks for

Vitiligo affecting face, neck, or hands
Depigmented patches visible on exposed skin
Photographs of affected exposed areas
Dermatology diagnosis and treatment records

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting exposed area involvement — the entire rating hinges on whether your face, neck, or hands are affected. Make sure the examiner specifically examines and documents all exposed areas.

⚠Not claiming disfigurement separately — if vitiligo on the face meets the characteristics of disfigurement under DC 7800, you may qualify for a higher separate rating.

⚠Forgetting secondary psychological effects — vitiligo, especially on the face, commonly causes depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal that may warrant a separate mental health claim.

⚠Not using Wood's lamp examination — a Wood's lamp (UV light) exam can reveal vitiligo patches that are not visible under normal lighting. Request this during your C&P exam.