Keloid Scars

DC 7801Skin38 CFR 4.118, DC 7801

Thick, raised scars that grow beyond the original wound area due to excess collagen. Keloids can be painful, itchy, and continue to grow over time. The VA rates keloid scars based on the total area of deep nonlinear scarring.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 7801

Rating range

10% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7801. 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

Your keloid scar or scars cover an area of 144 square inches (929 square centimeters) or greater.

What the VA looks for

Keloid scar area 144+ square inches (929+ sq cm)
Full body scar mapping documentation
Color photographs showing all keloid areas
Documentation of functional limitation from keloids
Surgical and treatment history

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not measuring all keloids — if you have multiple keloid scars, the total combined area counts. Make sure the examiner measures every single keloid.
⚠Forgetting to claim painful scars separately — keloids are often painful or tender. You can get an additional rating under DC 7804 if your keloid scars are also painful on examination.
⚠Not documenting growth over time — keloids continue to grow. Bring photos showing how your keloids have expanded since they first appeared to demonstrate the progressive nature.
⚠Missing functional limitation — if keloids limit joint movement or cause other functional problems, claim that separately under DC 7805.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Scars/Disfigurement

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →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 7801

Rating range

10% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your keloid scar or scars cover an area of 144 square inches (929 square centimeters) or greater.

What the VA looks for

Keloid scar area 144+ square inches (929+ sq cm)
Full body scar mapping documentation
Color photographs showing all keloid areas
Documentation of functional limitation from keloids
Surgical and treatment history

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not measuring all keloids — if you have multiple keloid scars, the total combined area counts. Make sure the examiner measures every single keloid.

⚠Forgetting to claim painful scars separately — keloids are often painful or tender. You can get an additional rating under DC 7804 if your keloid scars are also painful on examination.

⚠Not documenting growth over time — keloids continue to grow. Bring photos showing how your keloids have expanded since they first appeared to demonstrate the progressive nature.

⚠Missing functional limitation — if keloids limit joint movement or cause other functional problems, claim that separately under DC 7805.