Malignant Melanoma

DC 7833Skin38 CFR 4.118, DC 7833

The most serious type of skin cancer, developing from the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes). During active treatment, it is rated at 100%. After treatment, it is rated based on residual scars or disfigurement.

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 7833

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7833. 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 a malignant melanoma. A 100% rating is assigned from the date the malignancy is diagnosed or when treatment begins, and continues for six months following completion of surgical, X-ray, antineoplastic chemotherapy, or other therapeutic procedure. After six months, the VA will re-examine you.

What the VA looks for

Malignant melanoma diagnosis confirmed by biopsy
Active antineoplastic treatment (surgery, chemo, immunotherapy)
Pathology report with staging information
Treatment start and completion dates
Oncology treatment records

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not claiming the automatic 100% during treatment — from the date of diagnosis through six months after your last treatment, you should be rated at 100%. Make sure the VA has your exact treatment dates.
⚠Not claiming residual scars — melanoma excision requires wide margins, leaving significant scars. After the 100% treatment period ends, rate these scars under DC 7800-7805.
⚠Failing to connect to sun exposure during service — extensive outdoor duties, deployment to sunny locations, and lack of sun protection during service are risk factors. Document your military duties.
⚠Not documenting ongoing surveillance — melanoma survivors require lifelong monitoring. If cancer recurs, a new period of 100% rating begins. Keep all follow-up appointments documented.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Skin Diseases

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 7833

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Malignant melanoma diagnosis confirmed by biopsy
Active antineoplastic treatment (surgery, chemo, immunotherapy)
Pathology report with staging information
Treatment start and completion dates
Oncology treatment records

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not claiming the automatic 100% during treatment — from the date of diagnosis through six months after your last treatment, you should be rated at 100%. Make sure the VA has your exact treatment dates.

⚠Not claiming residual scars — melanoma excision requires wide margins, leaving significant scars. After the 100% treatment period ends, rate these scars under DC 7800-7805.

⚠Failing to connect to sun exposure during service — extensive outdoor duties, deployment to sunny locations, and lack of sun protection during service are risk factors. Document your military duties.

⚠Not documenting ongoing surveillance — melanoma survivors require lifelong monitoring. If cancer recurs, a new period of 100% rating begins. Keep all follow-up appointments documented.