Skin Cancer (Non-Melanoma)

DC 7818Skin38 CFR 4.118, DC 7818

Non-melanoma skin cancers including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. During active treatment, these are rated at 100%. After treatment, they are rated based on residual scarring 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 7818

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7818. 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 are currently receiving treatment for malignant skin cancer. This 100% rating continues for six months after the last treatment, then the VA will schedule a re-examination.

What the VA looks for

Active skin cancer diagnosis
Ongoing chemotherapy, radiation, or extensive surgery
Oncology treatment records
Pathology reports confirming malignancy
Treatment start and end dates

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not claiming residual scars after surgery — even after skin cancer is cured, the surgical scars can be rated separately under DC 7800-7805. Mohs surgery and excisions leave significant scars.
⚠Not knowing about the automatic 100% during treatment — if you are undergoing chemotherapy, radiation beyond the skin, or extensive surgery, you qualify for 100% from the start of treatment through six months after completion.
⚠Failing to connect sun exposure during service — military service often involves extensive outdoor sun exposure. Document your MOS, deployment locations, and duties that involved sun exposure.
⚠Not monitoring for recurrence — skin cancer can recur. If it comes back and requires treatment again, you may be entitled to a new period of 100% rating.

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 7818

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You are currently receiving treatment for malignant skin cancer. This 100% rating continues for six months after the last treatment, then the VA will schedule a re-examination.

What the VA looks for

Active skin cancer diagnosis
Ongoing chemotherapy, radiation, or extensive surgery
Oncology treatment records
Pathology reports confirming malignancy
Treatment start and end dates

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not claiming residual scars after surgery — even after skin cancer is cured, the surgical scars can be rated separately under DC 7800-7805. Mohs surgery and excisions leave significant scars.

⚠Not knowing about the automatic 100% during treatment — if you are undergoing chemotherapy, radiation beyond the skin, or extensive surgery, you qualify for 100% from the start of treatment through six months after completion.

⚠Failing to connect sun exposure during service — military service often involves extensive outdoor sun exposure. Document your MOS, deployment locations, and duties that involved sun exposure.

⚠Not monitoring for recurrence — skin cancer can recur. If it comes back and requires treatment again, you may be entitled to a new period of 100% rating.