Melanoma
Melanoma is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 7833 in the Skin category. Maximum rating: 100%.
Skin Condition Rating Reference
Body Surface Area - Rule of Nines
Source: 38 CFR ยง 4.118 - Schedule of Skin Ratings
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | For 6 months after treatments stop and the cancer goes dormant. |
| 100% | While active **AND** undergoing systemic treatments such as chemotherapy, x-ray (more extensive than just the skin), or surgery more extensive than the local removal of the skin. |
Filing Tips
Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.
Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.
Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.
Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.
Review the rating criteria for DC 7833 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.