Connecting Chloracne to Military Service
Skin conditions are a common consequence of military service due to field exposure — contaminated water, industrial chemicals, burn pit ash and particulates, thermal burns from combat, jungle or desert environments, and toxic mold at military installations. Chloracne may be directly caused by service exposure or may represent an exacerbation of a pre-existing condition beyond its natural progression. The PACT Act also covers skin conditions resulting from toxic chemical exposure during military service.
How VA Rates Chloracne
The VA rates Chloracne based on the percentage of exposed body surface area affected, the presence of systemic treatment requirements, and whether the condition is constant or episodic. Scars are rated on their location, size, and whether they limit underlying joint function. Burn scars are rated on the percentage of total body surface involved. Inflammatory skin conditions (dermatitis, psoriasis) are rated on treatment requirements — systemic therapy is typically required for ratings above 30%.
Diagnostic Code: 7829 — Chloracneis evaluated under 38 CFR Part 4 using this code. Ratings are determined at your Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam and confirmed in your rating decision letter.
Evidence Required for Your Chloracne Claim
- Dermatologist evaluation and diagnosis with complete medical records
- Photographs documenting the extent and severity of the skin condition
- Service records documenting exposure to chemicals, burns, contaminated water, or other skin hazards
- Private dermatologist nexus letter connecting the condition to military service or exposures
- Records of all treatments including topical, systemic, phototherapy, or surgical interventions
- Lay statement describing impact on daily activities, employment, and quality of life
Frequently Asked Questions — Chloracne and VA Disability
How does the VA rate Chloracne?
The VA rates skin conditions primarily on affected body surface area and treatment requirements. Ratings of 60% or higher require systemic therapy (oral medications, injections, or biologics) plus widespread involvement. Scars are rated based on location (whether over a joint), area, and limitation of function. The VA often under-rates skin conditions — if your condition requires systemic treatment, ensure your rating reflects that.
What evidence does VA need for a Chloracne claim?
You need: (1) a current diagnosis from a dermatologist, (2) service records or deployment history documenting exposure to the causative agent, (3) a nexus letter from your dermatologist if not claiming as a presumptive, and (4) photographs showing extent and severity. For scar claims, measurements of the scar and documentation of any functional limitation are critical. Multiple photographs over time help demonstrate severity better than a single exam.
Can burn pit or chemical exposure cause Chloracne?
Yes. Burn pit particulates, industrial chemicals at military installations, and chemical warfare agent exposure are all recognized causes of chronic skin conditions. The PACT Act covers skin conditions resulting from burn pit or toxic exposure for eligible veterans. Veterans who deployed to Southwest Asia after August 2, 1990 and developed skin conditions may qualify for presumptive service connection under the PACT Act without needing to prove direct causation.
Does Chloracne get worse ratings if it requires prescription treatment?
Yes. VA rating criteria for skin conditions explicitly factor in treatment requirements. Conditions requiring systemic treatment (oral steroids, biologics, immunosuppressants) are rated higher than those controlled with topical creams alone. If your condition has progressed and now requires systemic therapy, request a rating increase. Your current treatment plan as documented by your dermatologist is direct evidence for a higher rating.