Painful or unstable scars
Scars, unstable or painful. Diagnostic Code 7804.
Overview
Scars from injuries or surgeries can be rated when they are painful or unstable (the skin over them frequently breaks down).
How VA rates it
Diagnostic Code 7804 · 38 CFR 4.118
Here is a plain language summary of the rating levels in the regulation. Read the official text for the exact wording.
| Rating | Summary of the criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | Five or more unstable or painful scars. |
| 20% | Three or four unstable or painful scars. |
| 10% | One or two unstable or painful scars. |
Add 10 percent when one or more scars are both unstable and painful. Other codes cover scar size and disfigurement.
Common secondary connections
These are conditions often discussed in connection with Painful or unstable scars. A secondary claim generally needs medical evidence that one condition caused or worsened another. This list is general education, not a suggestion about any claim.
- Usually tied to the injury or surgery that caused the scar
Presumptive notes
VA does not list this condition on its main presumptive lists covered in this library. Service connection is generally shown with evidence of a current condition, an in service event, and a link between them. See VA hazardous materials exposure for other presumptive programs.
Evidence veterans generally gather
VA describes evidence types in its evidence guide. For this condition, veterans often collect:
- Records of the injury or surgery
- Photos
- Exam notes describing pain or skin breakdown
- A current diagnosis from a medical provider
- Service treatment records and personnel records
- VA and private treatment records
- Statements from you, family, or fellow service members (lay statements)
- A Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) completed by a provider, if available
Official source
Rating levels: 38 CFR 4.118 on eCFR. Rules change; always confirm the current text.
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