Vulvar Lichen Planus

DC 7699-7611Gynecological/Breast38 CFR 4.116, DC 7699-7611

A chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects the vulva, causing pain, itching, burning, and scarring that can narrow the vaginal opening. The VA rates vulvar lichen planus based on how severe your symptoms are and how well treatment controls them.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how often symptoms occur and how severe each episode is. The examiner will ask about the frequency, duration, and intensity of your episodes, as well as how they affect your ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7699-7611

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.116, DC 7699-7611. 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 vulvar lichen planus causes severe symptoms not controlled by treatment, including significant scarring, vaginal stenosis, or erosions that limit daily activities.

What the VA looks for

Severe erosive disease despite continuous treatment
Vaginal stenosis or introital narrowing documented
Significant vulvar scarring or architectural distortion
Failed multiple treatment modalities
Significant impact on daily activities and quality of life

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis — vulvar lichen planus can look like other conditions, and a tissue biopsy provides definitive evidence for your claim.
⚠Failing to document the progressive scarring and architectural changes — photographs and clinical measurements of vaginal stenosis over time show disease progression.
⚠Not filing for secondary depression or anxiety — chronic vulvar pain and its impact on intimate relationships commonly cause mental health conditions.
⚠Confusing lichen planus with lichen sclerosus — they are different conditions with different treatments, and accurate diagnosis matters for proper rating.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Gynecological Conditions and Disorders of the Breast

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Vulvar Lichen Planus

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7699-7611

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your vulvar lichen planus causes severe symptoms not controlled by treatment, including significant scarring, vaginal stenosis, or erosions that limit daily activities.

What the VA looks for

Severe erosive disease despite continuous treatment
Vaginal stenosis or introital narrowing documented
Significant vulvar scarring or architectural distortion
Failed multiple treatment modalities
Significant impact on daily activities and quality of life

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis — vulvar lichen planus can look like other conditions, and a tissue biopsy provides definitive evidence for your claim.

⚠Failing to document the progressive scarring and architectural changes — photographs and clinical measurements of vaginal stenosis over time show disease progression.

⚠Not filing for secondary depression or anxiety — chronic vulvar pain and its impact on intimate relationships commonly cause mental health conditions.

⚠Confusing lichen planus with lichen sclerosus — they are different conditions with different treatments, and accurate diagnosis matters for proper rating.