Multiple sclerosis — VA Diagnostic Code 8018

Minimum rating 30

Those are the only words on the DC 8018 percentage line. A rating above that minimum is not a second line under DC 8018. The note says that when ratings in excess of the prescribed minimum ratings are assigned, the diagnostic codes utilized as bases of evaluation be cited, in addition to the codes identifying the diagnoses.

Ascertainable residuals

The note requires ascertainable residuals for the minimum ratings under diagnostic codes 8000-8025. It names headaches, dizziness, and fatigability as examples of residuals not capable of objective verification. Subjective residuals will be accepted when consistent with the disease and not more likely attributable to other disease or no disease.

Sclerosis, multiple

The schedule title is “Multiple sclerosis.” 38 CFR § 3.309(a) lists “Sclerosis, multiple.” 38 CFR § 3.307(a)(3) says the chronic disease must have become manifest to a degree of 10 percent or more within 1 year from separation, and in the same sentence says “multiple sclerosis, within 7 years.”

Not the ALS code

DC 8017 is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis at 100 percent, with its own SMC note. Section 3.318 applies to that disease. It does not name multiple sclerosis.

Neighboring minimum-rating codes

What is the VA rating for DC 8018?

Under 38 CFR § 4.124a, multiple sclerosis has a minimum rating of 30 when the note’s ascertainable-residual requirement is met. The code does not print a higher percentage of its own. Education only. VA decides on the evidence.

How long after separation does § 3.307 give for multiple sclerosis?

Section 3.307(a)(3) says multiple sclerosis, within 7 years, from the date of separation specified in paragraph (a)(2). That parenthetical also names 3 years for Hansen's disease and tuberculosis. The herbicide lists do not name multiple sclerosis.

How does VA rate multiple sclerosis under DC 8018?

The code prints one level: minimum rating 30. The note under diagnostic codes 8000-8025 requires ascertainable residuals for that minimum. When a rating above the minimum is assigned, the note says the diagnostic codes used as the bases of evaluation are cited in addition to the diagnosis code. Education only.

What is the 7-year period?

Section 3.307(a)(3) names multiple sclerosis, within 7 years, inside the sentence that otherwise uses 1 year from the date of separation. The chronic-disease list in § 3.309(a) says “Sclerosis, multiple.” The schedule title is “Multiple sclerosis.”

Is multiple sclerosis an herbicide presumption?

Section 3.309(e) does not name multiple sclerosis. Sections 3.309(f), 3.320, 3.320a, 3.320b, and 3.316 do not name it. Section 3.318 names ALS, not multiple sclerosis.

Does DC 8018 print 100 percent?

DC 8018 prints “Minimum rating” 30. It does not print a 100 percent line of its own. The opening of § 4.124a says disability from the listed diseases and their residuals may be rated from 10 percent to 100 percent in proportion to the impairment, with the exceptions noted. A rating above the minimum cites the codes used as the bases of evaluation.