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Evidence checklist

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

DC 7899-780638 CFR § 4.118Skin

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 3 collected
Dermatology or surgery evaluation confirming diagnosis and Hurley stageCritical

A specialist should confirm the diagnosis and stage the severity (Hurley Stage I-III). Higher stages with tunnels and widespread scarring support higher ratings.

Private provider · independent opinion
Body surface area estimate of all affected regionsCritical

The examiner should check armpits, groin, under breasts, buttocks, and any other areas with abscesses or scarring, and estimate total body surface area.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking hidradenitis to serviceCritical

A medical opinion connecting your condition to friction from gear, heat exposure, stress, or onset during military service.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 2 collected
Treatment records (antibiotics, biologics, surgeries)Critical

Records of long-term oral antibiotics, biologic medications (Humira), and any surgical drainage or excision procedures. These count as systemic therapy.

VA or private records · written request
Surgical records for abscess drainage or excision

Records of any procedures to drain abscesses or remove affected tissue. Repeated surgeries show ongoing severity.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Skin DiseasesCritical

A standardized VA form documenting affected areas, abscess count, scarring, treatment type, and body surface area.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180

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