You can be rated separately for Lichen Planus and ingrown toenails if they are distinct conditions with separate etiologies, even if the VA initially considers them under the same diagnostic code. The key is proving they are separate and unrelated disabilities. Under **38 CFR § 4.118**, Diagnostic Code 7806 covers "dermatitis or eczema," which often includes Lichen Planus, while ingrown toenails are typically rated under Diagnostic Code 7807 for "onychia." The principle from case law like *Esteban v. Brown* allows separate ratings for distinct manifestations of a skin disease. Your claim's success hinges on medical evidence demonstrating your ingrown toenails are not merely a symptom or secondary condition of your service-connected Lichen Planus but are a separate, chronic condition directly linked to your service (as required by **38 CFR § 3.303**), supported by in-service events, ongoing treatment records, and a clear nexus. Your actionable next steps are to: 1) Obtain your service treatment records showing the initial ingrown toenail incidents and removals; 2) Gather all post-service podiatry records documenting the chronic, recurrent nature of the condition; and 3) Secure a supportive medical opinion (nexus letter) from a physician stating the ingrown toenails are either directly due to in-service events or, if they are a secondary condition, are aggravated by your service-connected Lichen Planus, explaining the distinct pathophysiology. File this as a new claim for "onychia" or "chronic ingrown toenails" with this evidence, explicitly arguing for a separate rating.
*Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes regarding VA claims processes and is not intended as legal or medical advice. For guidance specific to your case, please consult with an accredited VA attorney or claims agent.*
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