Basal Cell Carcinoma Residuals

DC 7818Skin38 CFR 4.118, DC 7818

The lasting effects after treatment for basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer. After the cancer is treated, the VA rates the remaining scars, disfigurement, or any recurrence.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type and intensity of treatment you require. Higher ratings correspond to more aggressive treatment regimens, such as daily medication, insulin dependence, or the need for ongoing medical management.

Diagnostic code

DC 7818

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7818. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You are currently receiving treatment for active or recurrent basal cell carcinoma using systemic chemotherapy, extensive radiation, or surgery beyond simple excision.

What the VA looks for

Active basal cell carcinoma requiring treatment
Systemic chemotherapy or extensive radiation
Surgery more extensive than wide local excision
Oncology treatment records with dates
Pathology confirming recurrence or persistence

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not claiming residual scars after Mohs surgery — Mohs surgery for basal cell carcinoma often leaves significant facial scars. Rate these separately under DC 7800 (face disfigurement) or DC 7801-7805.
⚠Not knowing about the automatic 100% during active treatment — if your basal cell carcinoma requires systemic chemotherapy, radiation beyond the skin, or extensive surgery, you qualify for 100% during treatment.
⚠Failing to document all surgical sites — if you have had multiple basal cell carcinomas removed, each surgical scar may contribute to your overall rating.
⚠Not connecting to military sun exposure — extensive outdoor duties without sun protection during service are a direct risk factor. Document your MOS and deployment conditions.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Skin Diseases
DBQ Scars/Disfigurement

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7818

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You are currently receiving treatment for active or recurrent basal cell carcinoma using systemic chemotherapy, extensive radiation, or surgery beyond simple excision.

What the VA looks for

Active basal cell carcinoma requiring treatment
Systemic chemotherapy or extensive radiation
Surgery more extensive than wide local excision
Oncology treatment records with dates
Pathology confirming recurrence or persistence

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not claiming residual scars after Mohs surgery — Mohs surgery for basal cell carcinoma often leaves significant facial scars. Rate these separately under DC 7800 (face disfigurement) or DC 7801-7805.

⚠Not knowing about the automatic 100% during active treatment — if your basal cell carcinoma requires systemic chemotherapy, radiation beyond the skin, or extensive surgery, you qualify for 100% during treatment.

⚠Failing to document all surgical sites — if you have had multiple basal cell carcinomas removed, each surgical scar may contribute to your overall rating.

⚠Not connecting to military sun exposure — extensive outdoor duties without sun protection during service are a direct risk factor. Document your MOS and deployment conditions.