38 CFR Part 4 — 38 CFR § 4.118
Discoid Lupus Erythematosus
dc-7809-discoid-lupus-erythematosus
Skin
Diagnostic code
7809
Why your DC matters: DC 7809 identifies the rating criteria VA applies to this condition. The controlling regulation and the evidence in an individual record determine the evaluation; no page can predict an outcome.
Catalog entry — detailed editorial review pending
Until this page is independently reviewed, it provides identification and official-source links only. It does not provide rating tactics or predicted outcomes.
Catalog source snapshot:
Rating criteria (38 CFR Part 4)
Diagnostic code 7809 — Discoid Lupus Erythematosus — is listed under 38 CFR § 4.118 in 38 CFR Part 4. The paragraphs below summarize how this code is used; the official schedule text controls exact percentages, formulas, and notes.
Schedule summary (educational, not a substitute for the regulation): Educational index row from the rating schedule naming convention; confirm exact diagnostic code, effective date, and criteria in the current eCFR Part 4.
Exact rating criteria: Open Part 4 in the eCFR (link under “Official source” below). Locate your diagnostic code number (7809) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / ⌘F) for “7809”. Copy the verbatim rating table, including any parenthetical notes, exceptions, and cross-references, for the version of Part 4 that applies to your effective date.
Effective dates & which schedule version applies
Which diagnostic code, percentage, and effective date apply depends on the facts of your claim and the version of the rating schedule in force for the period being decided. Generally, VA applies the schedule in effect at the specified time under 38 U.S.C. § 5110 and implementing rules, subject to exceptions (e.g., protected ratings, liberalizing law changes—see regulation and VA manual policy as applicable).
For older claims, the **current** eCFR may not match the text that applied years ago. If your decision references a prior percentage or code, compare against the Part 4 text **as of** your claim’s relevant dates; historical Federal Register / CFR snapshots may be needed for precise comparison.
The “Last verified” date on this page is when we last checked this educational summary against the electronic CFR—not the date of any VA policy or your personal claim decision.
Notes for your claim
Evidence: Show that your diagnosis and severity match the factors the schedule names for DC 7809 (e.g., measurements, frequency, treatment, functional loss), with medical and lay evidence as appropriate.
C&P exams: Results should reflect the schedule’s requirements (correct joints measured, correct formulas). If the exam omits required findings, consider submitting records or requesting clarification.
If you disagree with the DC, percentage, or effective date, review the Part 4 text for your period and consider a supplemental claim or appeal with a VA-accredited representative.
This site does not provide legal advice.
Official source
38 CFR Part 4 (eCFR) — locate diagnostic code 7809 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
Filing for Discoid Lupus Erythematosus? Get the free VA Claim Quick-Start Kit
The veteran’s field guide to filing a stronger claim — plus a Discoid Lupus Erythematosus filing checklist. Everything below, in one printable PDF:
- ✓The 5-step filing process — in the order that protects your back pay
- ✓An evidence checklist so you walk into your Discoid Lupus Erythematosus claim with the right records
- ✓The C&P exam mistakes that quietly cost veterans their rating
Next Steps
If your rating decision lists DC 7809, compare your current symptoms and documentation against the criteria above. Consider:
- Requesting a copy of your rating decision and C&P exam report from the VA
- Gathering all relevant medical records (VA and private providers)
- Documenting functional limitations and how they impact work and daily activities
- Discussing whether medical-opinion evidence is needed with an accredited representative
- Reviewing any potentially related conditions with a qualified clinician and accredited representative
- Contacting a VA-accredited VSO, claims agent, or attorney to review your file
This is general educational information only — not legal or medical advice.
Also: DC code lookup (tools) lists the same index in a compact layout.
Source: 38 CFR Part 4, Diagnostic Code 7809 • va.gov
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This page provides general educational information based on public VA regulations and VA.gov resources. It is not legal or medical advice, and VA Disability Max is not a VA-accredited representative. Any worksheets or draft documents produced by the tools must be reviewed for accuracy and are not filed with VA for you. Ratings and service connection are decided case-by-case from the individual record. Consult a VA-accredited VSO, claims agent, attorney, or qualified clinician for help with your situation, and verify current rules using the linked official source.