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Evidence checklist

Burn Scars — Deep Nonlinear

DC 780138 CFR § 4.118Skin

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 2 collected
Nexus opinion linking burn scars to serviceCritical

A medical opinion connecting your burn scars to an in-service burn, explosion, chemical exposure, or other injury.

Private provider · independent opinion
Color photographs showing extent of scarring

Photos of all scarred areas taken in good lighting. Include a ruler or measuring tape in the photo for scale.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

C&P examination

0 of 3 collected
Scar area measurements for each deep scarCritical

A doctor should measure the length and width of every deep scar and calculate the total area in square inches or square centimeters. Multiple scars are combined for the total.

VA-scheduled · request a copy on VA.govHow to get this →
Documentation that scars are deep (adherent to underlying tissue)Critical

The examiner must confirm the scar goes deeper than the skin surface and is stuck to the tissue underneath. This is what makes it "deep" rather than superficial.

VA-scheduled · request a copy on VA.govHow to get this →
Documentation of any functional limitation from scars

If your scars limit your movement or cause pain, the examiner should document this so you can get a separate rating under DC 7805.

VA-scheduled · request a copy on VA.govHow to get this →
03

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Scars/DisfigurementCritical

A standardized VA form that records scar type, depth, area, and any functional limitation caused by the scarring.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180

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