DC 7800 · 38 CFR 4.118
Scars (Burn / Disfigurement / Painful) C&P Exam Prep
To document the location, dimensions, characteristics, and functional impact of service-connected scars - particularly burn scars or scars causing disfigurement of the head, face, or neck - so that a VA rater can assign a disability percentage under 38 CFR 4.118, Diagnostic Code 7800.
- Format:
- Interview + Physical
- Typical duration:
- 15-30 minutes
- DBQ form:
- scars (scars)
- Examiner:
- Dermatologist or appropriate clinician
What the examiner evaluates
- Number, type, and precise location of each scar (head/face/neck vs. trunk vs. extremities)
- Visible or palpable tissue loss associated with each scar
- Gross distortion or asymmetry of facial features: nose, chin, forehead, eyes (including eyelids), ears (auricles), cheeks, lips
- Number of disfigurement characteristics present (hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, abnormal texture, induration/inflexibility, elevated or depressed surface contour, adherence to underlying tissue)
- Whether scars are painful or unstable (prone to breakdown)
- Approximate total area of scarring per body region in cm-
- Scar dimensions - length and width at widest point - for each individual scar
- Deformity of auricle (complete loss, loss of - one-third, or loss of < one-third of substance)
- Tissue loss or distortion involving the eye, eyelid, or other periorbital structures
- History, cause, origin, and course of each scar
- Impact of scarring on daily functioning, occupation, and social interaction
The examiner will conduct a full visual and tactile inspection of all claimed scar sites. Wear clothing that allows easy exposure of all affected areas. Bring a written list of every scar location with approximate dimensions if known. The examiner may take photographs; this is standard and does not require your consent to deny the exam, but you may note their existence in your own records.
Measurements and tests
Individual Scar Dimensions (Length - Width)
What it measures: The size of each discrete scar at its longest length and widest width in centimeters, which determines whether the scar meets area thresholds for higher ratings under DC 7801/7802 and informs the overall documentation under DC 7800.
What to expect: The examiner will use a ruler or tape measure directly on the skin. They will press on the scar to assess elevation or depression and will note whether the borders are regular or irregular.
Critical thresholds
- < 39 cm- total area Superficial, non-painful scars below this threshold generally do not receive a separate rating; accurate documentation still required
- > 39 cm- total area (non-linear superficial scar) Meets threshold for rating under DC 7802 at 10%
- 6 or more disfigurement characteristics present Supports 80% rating under DC 7800 (combined with tissue loss)
- 4-5 disfigurement characteristics present Supports 50% rating under DC 7800 (combined with tissue loss)
- 2-3 disfigurement characteristics present Supports 30% rating under DC 7800 (combined with tissue loss)
- 1 disfigurement characteristic present Supports 10% rating under DC 7800 (combined with tissue loss)
Tips
- Know the approximate size of each scar before the exam - use a ruler at home and write it down
- If a scar has grown or changed in size since last measured, say so explicitly
- If multiple small scars are clustered together, ask the examiner to document total combined area
Pain considerations: If pressure from the measuring instrument causes pain, state this aloud during measurement. Pain on palpation supports a painful scar finding.
Disfigurement Characteristics Assessment (7800 Head/Face/Neck)
What it measures: Counts the number of the seven recognized disfigurement characteristics present: (1) hyperpigmentation, (2) hypopigmentation, (3) abnormal texture, (4) induration and inflexibility, (5) surface contour elevated on palpation, (6) surface contour depressed on palpation, (7) adherence to underlying tissue. Also assesses distortion or asymmetry of named facial features.
What to expect: The examiner will visually inspect pigmentation changes, palpate for firmness or tethering, and compare bilateral facial features for symmetry. They will assess nose, chin, forehead, eyes (with eyelids), ears (auricles), cheeks, and lips individually.
Critical thresholds
- 3+ features grossly distorted/asymmetrical + tissue loss 80%
- 2 features grossly distorted/asymmetrical + tissue loss 50%
- 1 feature grossly distorted/asymmetrical + tissue loss 30%
- 6+ disfigurement characteristics (with tissue loss) 80%
- 4-5 disfigurement characteristics (with tissue loss) 50%
- 2-3 disfigurement characteristics (with tissue loss) 30%
- 1 disfigurement characteristic (with tissue loss) 10%
Tips
- Characteristics from multiple scars on the head/face/neck COUNT TOGETHER - per Note 5 of DC 7800, they need not come from a single scar
- Bring photographs taken on your worst days if scarring appearance changes (e.g., with heat, cold, or physical activity)
- Explicitly point out hypopigmented or hyperpigmented patches that the examiner might overlook in standard clinical lighting
- Induration (hardness/firmness) and inflexibility can be subtle - actively communicate tightness, restricted movement, or skin pulling sensations
Pain considerations: Not directly applicable to this measurement, but note that painful scars on the face/head are separately documentable under DC 7804 or 7805 and should be reported.
Painful/Unstable Scar Documentation
What it measures: Whether each scar is painful to touch, spontaneously painful, or unstable (i.e., subject to recurrent breakdown, ulceration, or open lesions). Painful and unstable scars carry independent rating significance under DC 7804.
What to expect: The examiner will apply light and firm palpation to each scar and ask about spontaneous pain, pain with clothing contact, pain with temperature changes, and history of breakdown or ulceration.
Critical thresholds
- 5 or more painful/unstable scars 30% under DC 7804
- 2-4 painful/unstable scars 20% under DC 7804
- 1 painful/unstable scar 10% under DC 7804
Tips
- Report pain during the palpation exam - do not stay silent when the examiner touches a scar
- Describe spontaneous pain that occurs without any touch (e.g., burning, stabbing, or aching)
- Document any history of skin breakdown at the scar site, even if it healed
- Note whether certain clothing, weather, or activities trigger pain at the scar site
Pain considerations: This is the central measurement for this test. Pain at rest, pain with touch, and pain during temperature changes should all be communicated clearly and separately.
Auricle (Ear) Deformity Assessment
What it measures: The degree of structural loss or deformity to the ear auricle caused by burn scars or other scarring, rated under the ear disfigurement criteria within DC 7800.
What to expect: The examiner will visually compare both auricles and document any partial or complete structural loss. They will note whether deformity involves less than one-third, one-third or more, or complete loss of the auricle substance.
Critical thresholds
- Complete loss of auricle Higher rating under ear disfigurement criteria; contributes to overall DC 7800 feature count
- Deformity with loss of - 1/3 of auricle substance Contributes to feature distortion count for DC 7800 rating
- Deformity with loss of < 1/3 of auricle substance Still documentable as feature involvement
Tips
- If one or both ears are affected, point this out clearly at the start of the exam
- Note whether the deformity affects hearing canal function (may support separate audiology claim)
- Bring photos showing the ear deformity at its most visible angle if the exam room lighting is poor
Pain considerations: If the auricle or surrounding area is painful to touch or when wearing glasses/headgear, report this during the exam.
Rating criteria by percentage
80%
Visible or palpable tissue loss AND either gross distortion or asymmetry of THREE OR MORE named facial features or paired sets of features (nose, chin, forehead, eyes/eyelids, ears/auricles, cheeks, lips), OR six or more characteristics of disfigurement.
Key symptoms
- Visible tissue loss (skin, subcutaneous tissue, or underlying structure missing)
- Gross asymmetry or distortion of 3+ facial features
- Six or more of the seven disfigurement characteristics simultaneously present
- Severe hyperpigmentation and/or hypopigmentation over large facial areas
- Marked induration and inflexibility restricting facial expression or movement
- Significant scar adherence to underlying facial tissue (bone, muscle, tendon)
From 38 CFR: Per 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7800: Tissue loss with distortion of forehead, nose, and both cheeks simultaneously; or six characteristics such as hypopigmentation, abnormal texture, induration, elevated contour, depressed contour, and adherence all present on head/face/neck scars.
50%
Visible or palpable tissue loss AND either gross distortion or asymmetry of TWO named facial features or paired sets of features, OR four or five characteristics of disfigurement.
Key symptoms
- Tissue loss with distortion of two features (e.g., nose and cheeks, or both eyelids)
- Four to five disfigurement characteristics present
- Significant color change (hypo- or hyperpigmentation) combined with abnormal texture and induration
- Scar tethering visible when patient smiles, opens mouth, or moves facial muscles
From 38 CFR: Per 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7800: Tissue loss with asymmetry of left and right cheeks; or four characteristics such as hypopigmentation, abnormal texture, depressed contour, and adherence to underlying tissue.
30%
Visible or palpable tissue loss AND either gross distortion or asymmetry of ONE named facial feature or paired set of features, OR two or three characteristics of disfigurement.
Key symptoms
- Tissue loss with distortion of a single feature (e.g., nose, one ear, or both lips)
- Two or three disfigurement characteristics present
- Visible color change (hypo- or hyperpigmentation) plus one other characteristic
- Partial auricle deformity with loss of one-third or more of substance
From 38 CFR: Per 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7800: Tissue loss with gross asymmetry of the nose alone; or two characteristics such as hypopigmentation and induration/inflexibility.
10%
Visible or palpable tissue loss AND either gross distortion or asymmetry of one feature, OR one characteristic of disfigurement.
Key symptoms
- At least one visible disfigurement characteristic (e.g., isolated hyperpigmentation, abnormal texture, or elevated/depressed contour)
- Minor auricle deformity with loss of less than one-third of substance
- Isolated adherence to underlying tissue without major visible distortion
From 38 CFR: Per 38 CFR 4.118, DC 7800: One characteristic such as hypopigmentation alone; or deformity of auricle with loss of less than one-third of the substance.
Describing your symptoms accurately
Pain and Tenderness
How to describe it: Describe the type of pain (burning, stabbing, aching, electric, throbbing), when it occurs (constant, with touch, with clothing contact, with temperature changes, with pressure), and its intensity on your worst days using a 0-10 scale. Specify which scar or scars are painful.
Example: On my worst days, the scar on my left cheek has a constant burning pain rated 7 out of 10. Even the collar of my shirt rubbing against it causes a sharp, stabbing pain. Cold weather makes it feel like it is on fire again. I have had to stop wearing certain clothing because of the contact pain.
Examiner listens for: Spontaneous pain, allodynia (pain from non-painful stimuli like clothing), pain at rest, pain reproducible on palpation, and history of the scar breaking down or ulcerating.
Avoid: Do not say 'it's just a little sore sometimes.' Instead, describe the specific character, frequency, and severity of pain, and how it changes your behavior.
Visible Disfigurement and Pigmentation Changes
How to describe it: Describe every visible change: areas that are lighter (hypopigmentation) or darker (hyperpigmentation) than surrounding skin, areas of abnormal texture (rough, shiny, leathery, bumpy), raised scars (hypertrophic or keloid), and sunken scars (atrophic or depressed). Be specific about which facial features are involved and how they look different from the unaffected side.
Example: The scar across my forehead is noticeably white compared to my normal skin tone, and the texture feels rough and leathery - people stare at it in public. My left earlobe is partially missing and the remaining tissue is thickened and dark. When I am hot or exert myself, the area turns red and stands out even more.
Examiner listens for: Specific named features affected, bilateral vs. unilateral involvement, patient-reported changes in appearance over time, and whether disfigurement causes social withdrawal or psychological distress.
Avoid: Do not minimize visible changes by saying 'it's not that bad.' The examiner's job is to document what is there; your job is to make sure nothing is missed. Point out every color change and texture difference, even subtle ones.
Tissue Loss and Structural Distortion
How to describe it: Explain whether the scar involves actual missing tissue - skin, fat, muscle, or cartilage - and how this changes the shape or symmetry of the affected area. Compare the affected feature to the unaffected side or to normal anatomy.
Example: The burn scar on my nose caused tissue loss on the right side - the tip of my nose is pulled to the right and looks sunken compared to the left side. My nostril on that side is partially collapsed, which affects my breathing. The tissue underneath feels hard and tethered to the bone.
Examiner listens for: Palpable absence of subcutaneous tissue, visible asymmetry of named features, functional consequences of tissue loss (e.g., impaired nostril airflow, incomplete eye closure, restricted mouth opening).
Avoid: Do not assume the examiner can see all tissue loss. If the loss is internal (e.g., missing fat under the skin surface), describe the sunken or hollow feeling. Show how the affected area moves differently than the unaffected side.
Induration, Inflexibility, and Tightness
How to describe it: Describe the scar as hard, stiff, or tight. Explain whether the tightness limits facial expression, restricts opening the mouth, affects blinking or eye closure, or causes pulling sensations when you move.
Example: The scar over my jaw is so tight and hard that I cannot open my mouth fully - I can only open it about halfway. When I try to smile, the scar pulls the corner of my mouth downward and to the left. The skin feels like leather and will not move freely.
Examiner listens for: Restricted range of facial or neck movement, tethering of the scar to underlying fascia or bone on palpation, patient demonstration of restricted expression or movement.
Avoid: Do not describe inflexibility only when directly asked. Demonstrate the restriction by opening your mouth, smiling, raising your eyebrows, or turning your neck during the exam.
Functional and Psychosocial Impact
How to describe it: Describe how the scars affect your daily life, employment, and social interactions. Include difficulty with eating, speaking, blinking, sunlight sensitivity, skin breakdown with physical activity, and any psychological effects such as avoidance of public situations.
Example: On my worst days I refuse to leave the house because of the stares and comments. I have turned down job interviews because the disfigurement is so visible. Eating in public is embarrassing because my lips do not close properly over the affected side, and food sometimes escapes. I cannot wear a standard uniform collar because contact with the neck scar causes constant pain.
Examiner listens for: Concrete examples of functional limitations, occupational impact, social avoidance, and activities of daily living affected by both the pain and visible disfigurement.
Avoid: Do not say 'I just deal with it.' The DBQ specifically asks for the impact of scars on the veteran's life. If psychosocial impact is significant, say so clearly. This supports a separate mental health claim if not already filed.
Scar Instability and Skin Breakdown
How to describe it: Describe any history of the scar reopening, forming sores, ulcerating, draining, or breaking down - especially with physical activity, friction, or pressure. Include frequency and how long episodes last.
Example: The scar on my neck breaks down about once every two months when I wear any shirt with a collar. It opens into a raw sore that takes about two weeks to heal, and during that time I have to keep it bandaged and cannot do physical activity that makes me sweat.
Examiner listens for: History of recurrent breakdown documented in medical records, current evidence of active ulceration or crusting, and patient report of activities that trigger breakdown.
Avoid: Do not omit past episodes of breakdown just because the scar appears intact on exam day. The examiner should document the history of instability, not just the current appearance.
Common mistakes to avoid
Failing to disclose all scar locations - only mentioning the most obvious scar
Why: VA rates each anatomically distinct scar separately. Scars on the trunk or extremities are rated under different diagnostic codes (DC 7801, 7802) in addition to DC 7800 for head/face/neck. Omitting body scars means losing potential separate ratings.
Do this instead: Before the exam, create a written inventory of every scar by location, approximate size, and characteristics. Bring this list to the exam and provide it to the examiner at the start.
Impact: All levels - missed scars mean missed ratings
Not reporting pain during palpation - staying quiet when the examiner touches a scar
Why: The examiner documents what is observed and reported. If you do not say 'that is painful' when the scar is touched, the examiner may record no tenderness, which eliminates the painful scar rating.
Do this instead: Verbally report pain the moment you feel it during palpation. Say 'that hurts' or 'that is tender' clearly so it is documented.
Impact: 10-30% for painful/unstable scars under DC 7804
Describing your 'average day' rather than your worst day
Why: Per M21-1 guidance, the VA rates the degree of disability present, and the DBQ specifically asks about the impact of scars. Describing only your best or average presentation underrepresents your actual disability level.
Do this instead: When asked how the condition affects you, explicitly describe your worst day. You may say 'on my worst days- and provide specific examples of maximum functional limitation.
Impact: All levels - worst-day reporting can be the difference between adjacent rating tiers
Assuming the examiner can see all disfigurement characteristics - failing to point out subtle findings
Why: Hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation can be subtle in certain lighting. Induration may not be obvious without patient guidance. The examiner may not palpate every area unless directed.
Do this instead: Actively guide the examiner to each characteristic. Say 'this area here has lighter skin' or 'if you press here it feels very hard compared to normal skin.' Point, do not assume.
Impact: 30-80% - each additional characteristic can move the rating tier
Not mentioning that disfigurement characteristics come from multiple scars collectively, not a single scar
Why: Note 5 of DC 7800 explicitly states that characteristics need not come from a single scar. Veterans and sometimes examiners mistakenly believe all characteristics must be on one scar, which artificially lowers the count.
Do this instead: If you have multiple scars on the head, face, or neck each contributing different characteristics, explicitly state this. Say 'The hypopigmentation is from the scar on my forehead, but the induration and elevated contour are from the separate scar on my cheek - together they represent multiple characteristics.'
Impact: 30-80% - this is the most common reason for under-rating at DC 7800
Failing to mention the service connection history and origin of each scar
Why: The DBQ asks for the history, cause, origin, and course of each scar. If this is not documented, the rater may have difficulty confirming service connection, especially for scars not previously claimed.
Do this instead: Prepare a brief narrative for each scar: when it happened, where you were serving, what caused it, how it was treated in service, and how it has changed since. Bring service treatment records if possible.
Impact: All levels - affects service connection, not just rating percentage
Not connecting scar-related disfigurement to psychosocial and occupational impact
Why: The DBQ has a specific field asking about the impact of scars on the veteran's life. If left blank or minimized, this limits the record's support for a higher rating and for any related mental health claim.
Do this instead: Clearly describe how the disfigurement affects your employment, social activities, relationships, and mental health. Be specific and concrete rather than vague.
Impact: Supports rating at all levels and related mental health claims
Prep checklist
- critical
Create a written scar inventory
List every scar by body location, approximate length and width, characteristics (color change, texture, pain, etc.), and the service event that caused it. Bring this document to the exam.
before exam
- critical
Measure each scar at home with a ruler
Use a centimeter ruler to measure the length and width of each scar. Record these measurements in your scar inventory. If a scar is difficult to measure alone, ask a family member to help.
before exam
- critical
Gather all relevant medical records
Collect service treatment records documenting the original injury, burn treatment records, surgical records, dermatology notes, and any private medical records related to scar treatment. Bring copies to leave with the examiner if permitted.
before exam
- critical
Take 'worst-day' photographs of all scars
Photograph each scar in good lighting, including close-ups showing pigmentation changes, texture, elevation or depression, and comparison views showing asymmetry of facial features. Date-stamp photos if possible. Per M21-1, if photographs are included in the record, the rater must consider them.
before exam
- critical
Identify all disfigurement characteristics present on your scars
Before the exam, review the seven characteristics: (1) hyperpigmentation, (2) hypopigmentation, (3) abnormal texture, (4) induration/inflexibility, (5) elevated contour, (6) depressed contour, (7) adherence to underlying tissue. Note which characteristics apply to which scar(s) so you can confirm they are all documented.
before exam
- recommended
Prepare a written description of functional limitations
Write down how scars affect eating, speaking, blinking, facial expression, neck movement, clothing choices, work, and social activities. Include examples of what you cannot do or do differently because of the scars.
before exam
- recommended
Research whether your state allows recording of C&P exams
Many states permit veterans to record their C&P examination. Check your state law and the exam location's policy. If permitted, notify the examiner at the start of the exam that you will be recording for your personal records.
before exam
- recommended
Note any secondary conditions caused by scarring
Identify any conditions that resulted from the scarring - such as restricted neck movement, keloid formation, nerve damage causing numbness, hearing loss from auricle damage, or vision issues from eyelid scarring. These may support additional claims under DC 7805.
before exam
- critical
Wear clothing that allows easy access to all scar sites
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that can be easily pulled aside or removed to expose scars on the head, face, neck, trunk, and extremities. Avoid heavy makeup or skin covering products over affected facial areas.
day of
- critical
Do not apply makeup, concealer, or heavy moisturizer over facial scars
Covering the scars before the exam can obscure pigmentation changes and texture abnormalities that the examiner needs to document. Present the scars as they naturally appear.
day of
- critical
Bring your written scar inventory and photographs
Present these documents at the start of the exam and ask the examiner to review them before beginning the physical inspection. Politely ensure the examiner notes them in the record.
day of
- recommended
Arrive early and review your prepared notes
Use the waiting time to review your scar inventory, disfigurement characteristics, and functional impact statements so they are fresh in your mind during the exam.
day of
- critical
Verbally report pain the moment the examiner touches a scar
Do not wait to be asked. The moment palpation causes pain, say 'that is painful' clearly so the examiner can document it. Do not minimize or endure pain silently.
during exam
- critical
Point out every scar and every disfigurement characteristic
Actively guide the examiner to each scar location, each area of color change, each area of abnormal texture, and each area of induration or tethering. Do not assume the examiner will find everything without guidance.
during exam
- critical
Demonstrate functional limitations caused by scar tightness
Show the examiner restricted facial movements: limited mouth opening, inability to fully close the eye, restricted neck rotation, asymmetric smile. Physical demonstration is more compelling than verbal description alone.
during exam
- recommended
Clarify that characteristics from multiple scars count together under DC 7800
If the examiner appears to be counting characteristics from only one scar, politely note: 'I understand that under DC 7800, characteristics from multiple scars on the head, face, and neck can be counted together per the rating criteria.' This is Note 5 of DC 7800.
during exam
- critical
Describe your worst-day symptoms explicitly
When the examiner asks about your condition, preface your answer with 'On my worst days- and provide the most severe accurate description. Do not default to describing an average or good day.
during exam
- recommended
Describe psychosocial and occupational impact when asked
When asked how the scars affect your life, give specific, concrete examples: declined job opportunities, avoided public places, changed eating habits, difficulty wearing required work attire, social isolation.
during exam
- critical
Request a copy of the completed DBQ
You have the right to request a copy of the DBQ and examiner's report. Submit a request through your VSO or directly to the VA. Review it carefully for accuracy and completeness.
after exam
- recommended
Write a post-exam summary of what was and was not covered
Immediately after the exam, write down everything discussed, everything the examiner documented, and anything you believe was missed or inaccurately recorded. This may be needed if you file a notice of disagreement.
after exam
- recommended
Consult your VSO if the DBQ appears inadequate or inaccurate
If the completed DBQ omits scar characteristics, understates dimensions, or fails to document pain you reported, consult a Veterans Service Organization representative about requesting a new examination or submitting a buddy statement and supplemental evidence.
after exam
- optional
Consider whether a nexus letter or private DBQ is needed
If you believe the VA examiner did not adequately capture your condition, you may obtain a private dermatology opinion or independent DBQ to submit as supplemental evidence.
after exam
Your rights during a C&P exam
- You have the right to have all claimed scars physically examined - the examiner must inspect each scar site, not merely review records.
- You have the right to request a copy of the completed DBQ and examination report after the exam is finalized.
- You have the right to record your C&P examination in most states - check state law and facility policy, then notify the examiner before beginning.
- You have the right to submit supplemental evidence - including private medical opinions, photographs, and buddy statements - if you believe the VA examination was inadequate.
- You have the right to request a new C&P examination if the original examination report is found to be inadequate per M21-1 criteria (e.g., fails to document scar location, type, and dimensions).
- Under 38 CFR 3.303 and the benefit of the doubt standard (38 CFR 3.102), if there is an approximate balance of evidence for and against service connection for a scar, it must be resolved in your favor.
- Per Note 5 of DC 7800, disfigurement characteristics from multiple scars on the head, face, or neck count together - you have the right to have all characteristics considered collectively, not per-scar.
- You have the right to be rated under the most favorable diagnostic code - if your scars qualify under both DC 7800 and DC 7801/7802/7804, the VA must apply the code that yields the higher rating, and DC 7805 allows separate rating of disabling effects not captured by the primary code.
- You have the right to submit a Notice of Disagreement (NOD) and request a Higher-Level Review or Board of Veterans' Appeals hearing if you disagree with the rating decision.
- You have the right to a trauma-informed examination environment - if you have PTSD or other service-connected mental health conditions related to the circumstances of your scarring, you may request a specific examiner or a support person be present.
Related conditions
- Scars - Superficial, Non-Linear (Other Than Head/Face/Neck) DC 7802 rates superficial non-linear scars on the trunk or extremities by total area; often rated alongside DC 7800 when scarring affects both the head/face/neck and body.
- Scars - Linear (Deep or Superficial) DC 7801 rates deep non-linear scars and DC 7803 rates superficial linear scars; veterans with both head/face and body scarring may have multiple scar DCs rated simultaneously.
- Scars - Painful or Unstable DC 7804 separately rates painful or unstable scars regardless of location; a scar rated under DC 7800 for disfigurement may also receive an additional rating under DC 7804 if it is painful or prone to breakdown.
- Scars - Other Effects (DC 7805) DC 7805 allows separate rating of any disabling effects of scarring not captured by DC 7800-7804 (e.g., restricted joint motion from scar contracture, nerve damage). Always consider 7805 when scars cause functional impairment beyond appearance.
- PTSD / Mental Health Conditions Significant facial disfigurement frequently causes or worsens PTSD, major depressive disorder, social anxiety, or adjustment disorders. If psychosocial impact is prominent, a separate or secondary mental health claim should be considered.
- Hearing Loss / Tinnitus Auricle deformity from burn scars can affect the external auditory canal and contribute to conductive hearing loss; veterans with ear scarring should also be evaluated for audiological conditions.
- Vision Conditions / Eye Disorders Scarring involving the eyelids or periorbital area can cause incomplete eye closure (lagophthalmos), corneal exposure, dry eye, or visual disturbance; these may support separate ophthalmologic claims.
- Musculoskeletal - Neck / Cervical Spine Burn scars and scar contractures of the neck can restrict cervical range of motion; if neck movement is impaired, a separate musculoskeletal rating under the appropriate DC may be warranted in addition to DC 7800.
Get a personalized prep packet
This guide covers what to expect for any veteran with this condition. If you have already uploaded your medical records, sign in to generate a packet that maps your specific symptoms to the DBQ fields your examiner will fill out.
This C&P exam preparation guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or claims advice. Always consult with a qualified Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative or VA-accredited attorney for guidance specific to your claim. Never exaggerate, minimize, or fabricate symptoms during a C&P examination.