Ranula (Sublingual Cyst)

DC 9913Dental/Oral38 CFR 4.150, DC 9913

A mucous retention cyst that forms under the tongue due to a blocked sublingual salivary gland duct. Ranulas can cause swelling under the tongue, difficulty speaking, difficulty swallowing, and interference with eating. Rated based on the frequency of recurrence and functional impact.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how often symptoms occur and how severe each episode is. The examiner will ask about the frequency, duration, and intensity of your episodes, as well as how they affect your ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 9913

Rating range

0% – 10%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.150, DC 9913. 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 recurrent ranula or a persistent ranula that causes ongoing swelling, discomfort under the tongue, and intermittent difficulty speaking or swallowing.

What the VA looks for

Recurrent or persistent ranula documented on examination
Ongoing sublingual swelling noted
Intermittent difficulty speaking or swallowing
Treatment records showing recurrence after prior surgery
Imaging (ultrasound or MRI) confirming cyst

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting recurrence after surgical treatment — if the ranula has returned after excision, this pattern of recurrence supports a compensable rating and should be clearly noted in medical records.
⚠Not describing functional impact on speech and swallowing — document how the swelling under the tongue interferes with daily activities like eating and speaking.
⚠Not connecting to in-service dental procedures or trauma — ranulas can develop after sublingual gland injury during dental work or jaw trauma sustained during military service.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Dental and Oral Conditions

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Condition Rating Guides

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Ranula (Sublingual Cyst)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 9913

Rating range

0% – 10%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have a recurrent ranula or a persistent ranula that causes ongoing swelling, discomfort under the tongue, and intermittent difficulty speaking or swallowing.

What the VA looks for

Recurrent or persistent ranula documented on examination
Ongoing sublingual swelling noted
Intermittent difficulty speaking or swallowing
Treatment records showing recurrence after prior surgery
Imaging (ultrasound or MRI) confirming cyst

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting recurrence after surgical treatment — if the ranula has returned after excision, this pattern of recurrence supports a compensable rating and should be clearly noted in medical records.

⚠Not describing functional impact on speech and swallowing — document how the swelling under the tongue interferes with daily activities like eating and speaking.

⚠Not connecting to in-service dental procedures or trauma — ranulas can develop after sublingual gland injury during dental work or jaw trauma sustained during military service.