Malignant melanoma (DC 7833)

Body system: SkinRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.118DBQ: DBQ DERM Skin Diseases

Malignant melanoma is a serious type of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of your body. The VA doesn't rate melanoma under this specific code - instead, they'll rate you based on what's left after treatment, like scars, disfigurement (especially on your head, face, or neck), or problems with how your body functions. Your rating percentage depends on the size and severity of scarring, any disfigurement, or functional limitations caused by the cancer or its treatment.

Rating levels

  • -1% — Malignant melanoma is rated 100% during active treatment, with the 100% rating continuing for six months after surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or other treatment ends. Six months out, VA reexamines and rates whatever residuals remain — scars, disfigurement of the head/face/neck, or loss of function — under 38 CFR § 4.118. Many melanoma cases connect via PACT Act presumptive exposure pathways; see our Cancer Claims Guide at /dc/cancer-claims-guide for how active-treatment ratings work.

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.