Malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa (excluding skin) — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 6014)

The VA rates Malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa (excluding skin) under Diagnostic Code 6014 at the following tiers: 100%. The minimum 100% rating requires: Malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa (excluding skin) that require therapy that is comparable to those used for systemic malignancies, i.e., systemic chemotherapy, X-ray therapy more extensive than to the area of the eye, or surgery more extensive than enucleation. The maximum 100% rating requires: Malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa (excluding skin) that require therapy that is comparable to those used for systemic malignancies, i.e., systemic chemotherapy, X-ray therapy more extensive than to the area of the eye, or surgery more extensive than enucleation.

Diagnostic Code 6014 is the VA rating identifier for Malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa (excluding skin) within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.79. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa (excluding skin) under DC 6014 is 100%. This tier requires: Malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa (excluding skin) that require therapy that is comparable to those used for systemic malignancies, i.e., systemic chemotherapy, X-ray therapy more extensive than to the area of the eye, or surgery more extensive than enucleation. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa (excluding skin) alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa (excluding skin) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.79, Diagnostic Code 6014. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa (excluding skin) may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa (excluding skin) requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.