Diagnostic Code 6208 · 38 CFR §4.87
A malignant neoplasm (cancer) of the ear can affect the auricle, ear canal, middle ear, or temporal bone. While relatively rare, ear cancers in veterans may be linked to prolonged sun exposure during outdoor military service, exposure to chemical agents or radiation, or chronic ear conditions left untreated during service. Types include squamous cell carcinoma (most common), basal cell carcinoma, and adenoid cystic carcinoma. The VA provides a mandatory 100% rating during active malignancy or treatment, with re-evaluation after treatment ends based on residual effects. This code covers ear neoplasms other than skin-only cancers.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Active malignancy or during treatment for malignant neoplasm of the ear (other than skin only). The 100% rating continues for six months after the last surgical, radiation, chemotherapy, or other therapeutic treatment ends. After that six-month period, the VA schedules a mandatory re-examination. If there has been no local recurrence or metastasis, the VA then rates based on whatever residual disabilities remain — hearing loss, scarring, nerve damage, and so on — each under their applicable diagnostic codes. |
Pathology reports confirming the malignant diagnosis are the most critical evidence. Treatment records including surgical reports, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy documentation establish the course of disease. Service treatment records or exposure documentation linking the cancer to military service support the nexus. A nexus letter from an oncologist or treating physician connecting the malignancy to service-related exposure is important.
Six months after treatment ends, the VA will schedule a mandatory re-evaluation. The rating will then be based on any residual effects such as hearing loss, scarring, nerve damage, or other functional impairment. Each residual may be rated under its own diagnostic code.
During active treatment, the 100% rating is in effect. After treatment, residual effects are rated separately under their respective codes. If the combined residuals result in a lower rating than the 100% you had during treatment, the VA must provide notice of the proposed reduction and allow you to respond.