Psoriatic Arthritis and Psoriasis

[Frankgs]

I have a current rating of 20% for Psoriatic Arthritis and 0% for Psoriasis. I began taking Humira back in 2017 for the psoriatic arthritis, been on topical therapy for psoriasis since 2010. The Humira has stopped working and the psoriasis has spread to different areas despite the topical therapy. My VA Dr has now put me on Cosentyx to treat "both psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis. Does being on Cosentyx for psoriasis qualify me for a 60% rating for psoriasis? I have a note from my VA doctor stating the cosentyx is for both psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis. 

Thanks for any advice.

[GBArmy]

Frankgs You need a diagnosis from you doc that matches diagnostic code 7816. You have to take certain drugs as indicated for a minimum amount of time. I would consider filing an intent to file and research getting a good IMO from a specialist. If you can get a 60% rating, the VA isn't going to do so without a fight. If the time element comes into play, you don't submit your defined claim until you meet the time requirement. Hope someone else can chime in as I don't have any direct experience with your disability. Good luck to you.

[Frankgs]

 

Thanks for the advice GBArmy. This is the code for my psoriasis diagnosis. Does that work as a diagnosis that matches diagnostic code 7816. 

I have to take the injections for a minimum of a year I think. My VA Rheumatologist is willing to sign a letter if I draft it. I just want to make sure I know what to put in the letter. My DAV person is saying to go ahead and apply for an increase in psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis. I just don't know if I agree with doing that right away.

[GBArmy]

Frankgs The way I read it, it was meds over the previous 12 months. So, I think you want to show that situation over at least the previous 12 months before you apply, or you don't meet that criteria. It does sound strange, but then, the VA makes it's own rules. I could be wrong, but that's what I think it means. IMO.