Squamous Cell Carcinoma Residuals

DC 7818Skin38 CFR 4.118, DC 7818

The lasting effects after treatment for squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body if not treated. After treatment, the VA rates the remaining scars, disfigurement, or any recurrence.

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 active or recurrent squamous cell carcinoma using systemic chemotherapy, extensive radiation, or surgery beyond simple excision.

What the VA looks for

Active squamous cell carcinoma requiring treatment
Systemic chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or extensive radiation
Surgery more extensive than wide local excision
Oncology treatment records with dates
Sentinel lymph node biopsy or staging results

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not claiming residual scars — squamous cell carcinoma excisions require wider margins than basal cell, leaving larger scars. Rate each scar under DC 7800-7805.
⚠Not monitoring for recurrence or metastasis — squamous cell carcinoma can spread to lymph nodes. If it recurs or metastasizes, a new period of 100% rating begins during treatment.
⚠Failing to connect to military exposures — sun exposure, radiation exposure, burn pits, and chemical exposure during service are risk factors. Document your service history and exposures.
⚠Missing the connection to actinic keratosis — if you also have actinic keratosis (a precancerous condition), claim it separately as it may support a higher combined rating.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Skin Diseases
DBQ Scars/Disfigurement

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 active or recurrent squamous cell carcinoma using systemic chemotherapy, extensive radiation, or surgery beyond simple excision.

What the VA looks for

Active squamous cell carcinoma requiring treatment
Systemic chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or extensive radiation
Surgery more extensive than wide local excision
Oncology treatment records with dates
Sentinel lymph node biopsy or staging results

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not claiming residual scars — squamous cell carcinoma excisions require wider margins than basal cell, leaving larger scars. Rate each scar under DC 7800-7805.

⚠Not monitoring for recurrence or metastasis — squamous cell carcinoma can spread to lymph nodes. If it recurs or metastasizes, a new period of 100% rating begins during treatment.

⚠Failing to connect to military exposures — sun exposure, radiation exposure, burn pits, and chemical exposure during service are risk factors. Document your service history and exposures.

⚠Missing the connection to actinic keratosis — if you also have actinic keratosis (a precancerous condition), claim it separately as it may support a higher combined rating.