Neoplasm, hard and soft tissue, malignant — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 9918)

The VA rates Neoplasm, hard and soft tissue, malignant under Diagnostic Code 9918 at the following tiers: 100%. The minimum 100% rating requires: Neoplasm, hard and soft tissue, malignant. The maximum 100% rating requires: Neoplasm, hard and soft tissue, malignant.

Diagnostic Code 9918 is the VA rating identifier for Neoplasm, hard and soft tissue, malignant within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.150. 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 Neoplasm, hard and soft tissue, malignant under DC 9918 is 100%. This tier requires: Neoplasm, hard and soft tissue, malignant. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Neoplasm, hard and soft tissue, malignant alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Neoplasm, hard and soft tissue, malignant is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.150, Diagnostic Code 9918. 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 Neoplasm, hard and soft tissue, malignant 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 Neoplasm, hard and soft tissue, malignant 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.