Liver Cancer Residuals (Hepatocellular Carcinoma)

DC 7343Digestive38 CFR 4.114, DC 7343

Residual effects following treatment for liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma). The VA rates liver cancer residuals based on the extent of ongoing treatment, liver function impairment, and the impact on your daily life after the initial therapeutic procedure.

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 7343

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.114, DC 7343. 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 have active liver cancer, are undergoing active antineoplastic treatment, or have severe liver failure with near-constant debilitating symptoms such as ascites, encephalopathy, or variceal bleeding.

What the VA looks for

Active malignancy confirmed on biopsy or imaging
Ongoing chemotherapy, radiation, or surgical intervention
Severe liver failure (ascites, encephalopathy, variceal bleeding)
Inability to maintain employment due to condition

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not filing for residuals immediately after cancer treatment ends — the VA can assign a 100% rating during active treatment and then reduce it, so documenting residuals early preserves your rating.
⚠Not documenting all liver function test results over time — a pattern of abnormal LFTs supports a higher residual rating even after remission.
⚠Not claiming secondary conditions caused by cancer treatment, such as depression, peripheral neuropathy from chemotherapy, or surgical complications.
⚠Not requesting a hepatology specialist examination if the C&P examiner is a general practitioner — liver cancer residuals require specialized assessment.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Liver Conditions

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 7343

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Active malignancy confirmed on biopsy or imaging
Ongoing chemotherapy, radiation, or surgical intervention
Severe liver failure (ascites, encephalopathy, variceal bleeding)
Inability to maintain employment due to condition

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not filing for residuals immediately after cancer treatment ends — the VA can assign a 100% rating during active treatment and then reduce it, so documenting residuals early preserves your rating.

⚠Not documenting all liver function test results over time — a pattern of abnormal LFTs supports a higher residual rating even after remission.

⚠Not claiming secondary conditions caused by cancer treatment, such as depression, peripheral neuropathy from chemotherapy, or surgical complications.

⚠Not requesting a hepatology specialist examination if the C&P examiner is a general practitioner — liver cancer residuals require specialized assessment.