Condition Rating Guides
Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…
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Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…
Burn scars on the head, face, or neck that cause disfigurement. The VA rates based on the number of disfigurement characteristics, such as scar size, tissue loss, and distortion of facial features.
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 7800
Rating range
10% – 80%
Rating levels
4
Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7800. 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.
You have visible or palpable tissue loss and either gross distortion or asymmetry of three or more features or paired sets of features, or you have six or more characteristics of disfigurement. The eight characteristics include: scar 5+ inches long, scar at least 1/4 inch wide at widest part, surface contour elevated or depressed, scar adherent to underlying tissue, skin hypo- or hyper-pigmented in area exceeding 6 square inches, abnormal skin texture in area exceeding 6 square inches, underlying soft tissue missing in area exceeding 6 square inches, and skin indurated and inflexible in area exceeding 6 square inches.
What the VA looks for
Conditions commonly associated with Burn Scars of Head, Face, or Neck or rated under the same body system.
Lumbar Strain (Low Back Pain)
Cervical Strain (Neck Pain)
Knee Limitation of Flexion
Knee Limitation of Extension
Knee Instability (Subluxation)
Plantar Fasciitis (Foot Pain)
Degenerative Arthritis (Osteoarthritis)
Fibromyalgia