38 CFR Part 4 β 38 CFR Β§ 4.114
Benign Neoplasms Exclusive Of Skin Growths
dc-7344-benign-neoplasms-exclusive-of-skin-growths
Digestive
Diagnostic code
7344
Why your DC matters: DC 7344 is the exact code the VA uses to rate this condition. It determines which symptoms unlock which percentage, what evidence the rater looks for, and which secondaries are most likely to be approved.
Last verified against 38 CFR (eCFR Part 4):
Rating criteria (38 CFR Part 4)
Diagnostic code 7344 β Benign Neoplasms Exclusive Of Skin Growths β is listed under 38 CFR Β§ 4.114 in 38 CFR Part 4. The paragraphs below summarize how this code is used; the official schedule text controls exact percentages, formulas, and notes.
Schedule summary (educational, not a substitute for the regulation): Educational index row from the rating schedule naming convention; confirm exact diagnostic code, effective date, and criteria in the current eCFR Part 4.
Exact rating criteria: Open Part 4 in the eCFR (link under βOfficial sourceβ below). Locate your diagnostic code number (7344) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / βF) for β7344β. Copy the verbatim rating table, including any parenthetical notes, exceptions, and cross-references, for the version of Part 4 that applies to your effective date.
Effective dates & which schedule version applies
Which diagnostic code, percentage, and effective date apply depends on the facts of your claim and the version of the rating schedule in force for the period being decided. Generally, VA applies the schedule in effect at the specified time under 38 U.S.C. Β§ 5110 and implementing rules, subject to exceptions (e.g., protected ratings, liberalizing law changesβsee regulation and VA manual policy as applicable).
For older claims, the **current** eCFR may not match the text that applied years ago. If your decision references a prior percentage or code, compare against the Part 4 text **as of** your claimβs relevant dates; historical Federal Register / CFR snapshots may be needed for precise comparison.
The βLast verifiedβ date on this page is when we last checked this educational summary against the electronic CFRβnot the date of any VA policy or your personal claim decision.
Notes for your claim
Evidence: Show that your diagnosis and severity match the factors the schedule names for DC 7344 (e.g., measurements, frequency, treatment, functional loss), with medical and lay evidence as appropriate.
C&P exams: Results should reflect the scheduleβs requirements (correct joints measured, correct formulas). If the exam omits required findings, consider submitting records or requesting clarification.
If you disagree with the DC, percentage, or effective date, review the Part 4 text for your period and consider a supplemental claim or appeal with a VA-accredited representative.
This site does not provide legal advice.
Official source
38 CFR Part 4 (eCFR) β locate diagnostic code 7344 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
DC 7344 covers benign neoplasms of the digestive system (excluding skin growths) β benign liver tumors (hepatic adenoma, focal nodular hyperplasia, hemangioma when symptomatic), benign GI tract tumors (gastric polyps, small bowel adenomas, colorectal polyps when symptomatic), and other benign digestive neoplasms. Per the schedule, DC 7344 is rated under the diagnostic code appropriate to the predominant disability OR the specific residuals after treatment β meaning the rating draws from analog DCs (e.g., DC 7345 chronic liver disease for benign liver tumors with hepatic dysfunction; DC 7305 ulcer disease for symptomatic gastric polyps; DC 7319 IBS-equivalent for colonic adenoma residuals; surgical residuals under DC 7301 adhesions if post-surgical). The tactical play is identifying the analog DC that captures the predominant disability and rating accordingly. Important pathway for veterans with chronic hepatitis (HCV, HBV) who develop hepatic adenomas as secondary effect, or veterans with chronic GI conditions developing symptomatic polyps.
Rating Tiers β What Each Percentage Requires
| Rating | What It Takes | Evidence That Supports It |
|---|---|---|
| 0% | Per DC 7344, evaluate under the diagnostic code appropriate to the predominant disability or specific residuals after treatment. Rating draws from analog DC based on affected organ and severity. | Biopsy + imaging confirming benign neoplasm; analog DC selection based on predominant residual (hepatic dysfunction, GI symptoms, surgical residuals, etc.). |
What Qualifies Under DC 7344?
Benign neoplasm of digestive system (excluding skin)
Hepatic adenoma, focal nodular hyperplasia, symptomatic hemangioma, gastric polyps, small bowel adenomas, colorectal polyps, other benign digestive neoplasms. Confirmed by tissue biopsy + imaging.
Rated by analogy to predominant disability
DC 7344 directs evaluation under the diagnostic code appropriate to the predominant disability or specific residuals. Common analogs:
- β’ Hepatic neoplasm β DC 7345 (chronic liver disease)
- β’ Symptomatic gastric polyp β DC 7305 (ulcer disease)
- β’ Colorectal adenoma residuals β DC 7319 (IBS) or surgical residual codes
- β’ Post-surgical residuals β DC 7301 (adhesions) + scar codes
Malignant transformation monitoring
Some benign neoplasms have malignant potential. Periodic surveillance imaging + biopsy. If upgrades to malignant, file under DC 7343 (malignant digestive neoplasm) β 100% during active disease.
Language Your Rater Needs to See
These are the exact (or near-exact) regulatory phrases that unlock specific tiers. If your DBQ or C&P report doesn't use this vocabulary, the rater may default to a lower percentage even when symptoms qualify.
βEvaluated under analog DC for predominant disability or specific residualsβ
DC 7344 itself doesn't have its own tier ladder β the schedule directs evaluation under the most appropriate analog DC. Identify the predominant disability and rate under that code. Common analogs: DC 7345 (chronic liver disease, for hepatic adenomas), DC 7305 (ulcer for symptomatic gastric polyps), DC 7319 (IBS for colonic adenoma residuals), DC 7301 (adhesions for post-surgical residuals).
βHepatic adenoma / focal nodular hyperplasia / symptomatic hemangioma β analog DC 7345β
Benign liver tumors with hepatic dysfunction symptoms (fatigue, pain, hepatomegaly) rate under DC 7345 (chronic liver disease without cirrhosis). Document LFT abnormalities and symptoms to anchor 20%+ tier under DC 7345.
βPost-surgical residuals (adhesions, scarring, functional impairment) β analog DC 7301 + scar codesβ
If benign neoplasm was surgically resected, post-surgical residuals (peritoneal adhesions DC 7301, scars DC 7804/7805, functional impairment) stack as separate ratings.
βMonitor for malignant transformation β file new claim if biopsy upgradesβ
Some benign neoplasms (e.g., hepatic adenomas, colorectal adenomas with high-grade dysplasia) have malignant potential. If pathology upgrades to malignant, file under DC 7343 (malignant digestive neoplasm) β 100% during active disease + post-treatment tail.
Evidence Checklist β Specific to This Condition
Tissue biopsy + pathology report confirming benign neoplasm
CRITICALDistinguishes benign from malignant. Subtype (adenoma, focal nodular hyperplasia, hemangioma, polyp) determines analog DC selection.
Imaging (ultrasound, CT, MRI) characterizing lesion
CRITICALSize, location, vascularity, growth pattern. Drives symptom assessment and surgical decisions.
Symptom diary β fatigue, abdominal pain, hepatomegaly, GI symptoms
CRITICALDrives the analog DC rating tier. Specific symptoms anchor specific tiers under DC 7345 (liver) or other analog codes.
LFTs + relevant labs
IMPORTANTFor hepatic neoplasms: LFT trend (AST, ALT, ALP, bilirubin, albumin). For GI tract: CBC for chronic blood loss, occult blood, etc.
Surgical / treatment records (if resection or embolization performed)
IMPORTANTAnchors post-surgical residuals β adhesions, scars, functional impairment.
Surveillance imaging β periodic monitoring for recurrence / transformation
SUPPORTINGBenign neoplasms with malignant potential require periodic surveillance. Document each surveillance interval.
Underlying liver / GI disease documentation (if secondary pathway)
SUPPORTINGHepatic adenomas in HCV / HBV / NAFLD; colorectal adenomas in IBD; gastric polyps in chronic gastritis. Establishes secondary connection lane.
C&P Exam Tips
Bring pathology + imaging report identifying the specific benign neoplasm subtype
Subtype determines analog DC selection. Hepatic adenoma vs. focal nodular hyperplasia vs. hemangioma all behave differently.
Document symptoms tied to the predominant analog DC
For liver tumors: hepatic symptoms (fatigue, pain, hepatomegaly, pruritus) β DC 7345 tier. For GI tumors: bleeding, obstruction, dysfunction β relevant GI analog.
Bring secondary connection documentation if applicable
Hepatic adenoma + SC chronic hepatitis = direct secondary. Colorectal adenomas + SC IBD = direct secondary.
Don't accept 0% when analog DC supports higher rating
DC 7344 itself is rated by analog. If hepatic adenoma causes symptoms anchoring 20% under DC 7345, that's the rating β don't accept 0% because 'it's just benign.'
Common Mistakes That Cost Veterans Points
Accepting 0% because 'benign means no rating'
DC 7344 explicitly directs evaluation under the analog DC for the predominant disability. Symptomatic benign neoplasms rate under the affected-organ DC. Hepatic adenoma with fatigue + hepatomegaly = 20%+ under DC 7345.
Not selecting the correct analog DC
Hepatic neoplasm β DC 7345 (chronic liver disease, post-May-2024 schedule). Gastric polyp with chronic symptoms β DC 7305 (ulcer disease) by analogy. Colorectal adenoma residuals β DC 7319 (IBS) by analogy. Post-surgical residuals β DC 7301 (adhesions). Choose the analog that captures the predominant disability.
Missing secondary connection to underlying SC disease
Hepatic adenomas in SC chronic hepatitis (HCV DC 7354, HBV DC 7345). Colorectal adenomas in SC IBD (DC 7323 UC, DC 7326 Crohn's). Gastric polyps in SC chronic gastritis. The secondary pathway is direct.
Not monitoring for malignant transformation
Hepatic adenomas (especially Ξ²-catenin-activated subtype) and colorectal adenomas (with high-grade dysplasia) have malignant potential. If pathology upgrades, file under DC 7343 (malignant digestive neoplasm) β 100% during active disease + 6-month post-treatment tail.
Not stacking post-surgical residuals
Surgical resection leaves residuals: peritoneal adhesions (DC 7301), scars (DC 7804/7805), functional impairment. Each rateable separately on top of the analog DC rating.
Tactical Plays
β‘ Identify the analog DC β that's the actual rating
DC 7344 explicitly directs evaluation under the diagnostic code appropriate to the predominant disability. For hepatic adenomas with hepatic dysfunction, the rating is actually under DC 7345 (chronic liver disease, post-May-2024 schedule). For symptomatic GI polyps, the analog is the affected-organ DC (DC 7305 ulcer, DC 7319 IBS, etc.). Identify the analog first β that determines the tier ladder.
β‘ Pursue direct secondary connection to underlying SC disease
Hepatic adenomas develop more commonly in patients with chronic hepatitis (HCV, HBV, NAFLD). Colorectal adenomas develop more commonly in IBD. Gastric polyps develop in chronic gastritis. If the underlying disease is service-connected, the benign neoplasm is direct secondary β no separate nexus required.
β‘ Surveillance for malignant transformation β file new claim if upgrade
Some benign neoplasms have malignant potential. Hepatic adenomas (especially Ξ²-catenin-activated subtype, >5 cm size, in men, with anabolic steroid exposure history) can transform to hepatocellular carcinoma. Colorectal adenomas with high-grade dysplasia can progress to adenocarcinoma. If pathology upgrades, file under DC 7343 (malignant digestive neoplasm) immediately β 100% during active disease + 6-month post-treatment tail.
β‘ Stack post-surgical residuals aggressively
Surgical resection (hepatectomy, polypectomy, partial colectomy) leaves residuals: peritoneal adhesions (DC 7301), surgical scars (DC 7804 painful, DC 7805 functional), functional impairment. Each rates separately on top of the underlying analog DC rating. Build the residuals file proactively after any resection.
Secondary Conditions to File With This One
Chronic liver disease (analog rating for hepatic adenoma)
STRONGDC 7345
Hepatic adenomas with hepatic dysfunction symptoms (fatigue, pain, hepatomegaly, LFT abnormalities) rate by analogy under DC 7345. Identify the analog DC = identify the actual rating path.
Peritoneal adhesions (post-surgical residual)
STRONGDC 7301
Surgical resection of benign neoplasm causes post-surgical adhesions. Symptomatic adhesions rate under DC 7301 separately.
Surgical scars (painful or functional)
MODERATEDC 7804 / 7805
Abdominal surgery scars rate under DC 7804 (painful) or DC 7805 (functional limitation).
Malignant transformation (rare but consequential)
SITUATIONALDC 7343
Some benign neoplasms have malignant potential. If pathology upgrades to malignant, file under DC 7343 (malignant digestive neoplasm) β 100% during active disease + 6-month tail.
Chronic hepatitis (underlying cause of hepatic adenomas)
STRONGDC 7345 / 7354
Hepatic adenomas develop more commonly in chronic hepatitis patients. If hepatitis is SC, the adenoma is direct secondary.
IBD (underlying cause of colorectal adenomas)
STRONGDC 7323 / 7326
IBD increases colorectal adenoma / cancer risk. SC IBD + colorectal adenoma = direct secondary.
Iron-deficiency anemia from chronic GI bleeding
MODERATEDC 7720
Symptomatic GI tract neoplasms with chronic occult bleeding cause iron deficiency. Rates separately under DC 7720.
Compensation Scenarios
2026 rates (effective Dec 1, 2025, per va.gov)
0% β single, no dependents
TOTAL
$0.00/mo
Asymptomatic benign neoplasm, no analog DC trigger met.
Symptomatic hepatic adenoma rated by analogy under DC 7345 at 20%
Base rating
$356.66
TOTAL
$356.66/mo
Pruritus or hepatomegaly anchors 20% under analog DC 7345.
Hepatic adenoma 20% + post-surgical adhesions DC 7301 30%
Base rating
$795.84
TOTAL
$795.84/mo
Combined ~44% rounds to 40%. Analog rating + post-surgical stack.
Note: Amounts are approximations rounded to nearest dollar. Actual comp varies with effective date, dependents (spouse, children, parents β each adds), Aid & Attendance, and additional disabilities. Combined ratings use VA Math (Β§ 4.25), not simple addition.
Key Definitions
πWhy does DC 7344 rate by analogy?
The schedule recognizes that benign digestive neoplasms vary widely in location, symptoms, and disability impact. Rather than create a unified tier ladder, the schedule directs evaluation under the diagnostic code appropriate to the predominant disability β meaning the actual rating comes from the analog DC that best captures the affected organ system and severity. Identify the analog DC first, then apply that DC's tier ladder.
π©ΊWhat are the common benign liver neoplasms?
Hepatic adenoma (often associated with oral contraceptives, anabolic steroids, NAFLD), focal nodular hyperplasia (typically asymptomatic, no malignant potential), hemangioma (most common benign liver tumor, usually asymptomatic but can cause symptoms if large). Hepatic adenomas with hepatic dysfunction rate under DC 7345 by analogy.
β οΈCan benign neoplasms have malignant potential?
Yes β hepatic adenomas (especially Ξ²-catenin-activated subtype, >5 cm, in men) can transform to hepatocellular carcinoma. Colorectal adenomas with high-grade dysplasia progress to adenocarcinoma. Gastric polyps (adenomatous subtype) have malignant potential. Periodic surveillance is critical; if pathology upgrades, file under DC 7343 (malignant digestive neoplasm).
πIs the benign neoplasm a direct secondary to SC chronic disease?
Often yes. Hepatic adenomas develop more commonly in chronic hepatitis (HCV, HBV, NAFLD). Colorectal adenomas develop more commonly in IBD. Gastric polyps develop in chronic gastritis. If the underlying disease is service-connected, the benign neoplasm is a direct secondary β no separate nexus required.
How to File Your Claim
Pull biopsy + imaging confirming benign neoplasm subtype
Subtype determines analog DC selection.
Identify the analog DC that captures the predominant disability
Hepatic β DC 7345; GI tract β affected-organ DC; post-surgical β DC 7301 + scar codes.
Document symptoms anchoring the analog DC tier
Specific symptoms for the analog DC drive the rating. E.g., for DC 7345: fatigue, hepatomegaly, pruritus, weight loss.
File 21-526EZ specifying 'benign neoplasm of digestive system (DC 7344, rated by analogy under DC [analog])'
Identify both DC 7344 and the analog code in the claim narrative.
Pursue direct secondary connection if underlying SC disease
Hepatic adenoma + SC hepatitis = direct secondary. Build the secondary file.
Typical Claim Timeline
File initial claim
Day 0β7: Submit VA Form 21-526EZ with all medical evidence on file
VA acknowledges claim
Week 1β2: Receive confirmation letter and claim tracking number
C&P examination scheduled
Month 1β3: VA contracts an exam vendor and sends you appointment notice
Attend C&P exam
Bring your full evidence package; describe symptoms on your worst days, not your best
Decision & rating notice
Month 3β6: Decision letter with rating percentage and effective date
First payment & retro back pay
Within 15 days of decision; retroactive to claim date (or effective date if earlier)
Timeline varies by case complexity and VA regional office workload. Some claims resolve faster; others take longer.
Important Considerations
Rated by analogy to predominant disability
DC 7344 has no own tier ladder. Identify the analog DC that captures the affected organ + severity.
Direct secondary to SC chronic disease if applicable
Hepatic adenomas in chronic hepatitis. Colorectal adenomas in IBD. Pursue secondary pathway.
Surveillance for malignant transformation
Some benign neoplasms have malignant potential. Periodic imaging + biopsy. File DC 7343 if upgrade.
Stack post-surgical residuals
Adhesions (DC 7301), scars (DC 7804/7805), functional impairment. Each rates separately.
Related Tools & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How is DC 7344 different from DC 7343?
DC 7344 covers BENIGN neoplasms of the digestive system, rated by analogy to the predominant disability. DC 7343 covers MALIGNANT neoplasms of the digestive system β 100% during active disease + 6-month post-treatment tail. If a benign neoplasm transforms to malignant on biopsy, file under DC 7343 immediately.
What does 'rated by analogy' mean for DC 7344?
DC 7344 explicitly directs evaluation under the diagnostic code appropriate to the predominant disability or specific residuals after treatment. Meaning the actual rating comes from the analog DC that best captures the affected organ system. For hepatic adenomas with hepatic dysfunction, the analog is DC 7345 (chronic liver disease). For symptomatic gastric polyps, the analog is DC 7305 (ulcer disease). Identify the analog DC first β that's where the tier ladder lives.
Is a hepatic adenoma service-connectable?
Yes, via multiple pathways: (1) Direct secondary to SC chronic hepatitis (HCV under DC 7354, HBV under DC 7345). (2) Direct secondary to SC NAFLD or other liver disease. (3) Anabolic steroid use during service (military medical issue). (4) Toxic exposure framework (Camp Lejeune, burn pit) if applicable. File the strongest applicable pathway.
Do I need to file each benign polyp separately?
No β DC 7344 covers benign neoplasms of the digestive system as a category. If multiple benign neoplasms are present (e.g., multiple colorectal polyps), file under DC 7344 once and document the cumulative disability picture. The analog DC rating accounts for combined severity. Post-surgical residuals (adhesions, scars) from polypectomies stack as separate ratings.
What if my benign neoplasm becomes malignant?
File a new claim under DC 7343 (malignant digestive neoplasm) immediately upon pathology upgrade. DC 7343 grants 100% during active disease and for 6 months after completion of treatment, then mandatory VA examination for residual rating. The malignant rating replaces (doesn't stack with) the prior benign DC 7344 rating. Document the pathology timeline to anchor the effective date of the malignant rating.
Official Regulatory Source
Benign neoplasms of the digestive system rate under 38 CFR Β§ 4.114, DC 7344 β evaluated by analogy to the diagnostic code appropriate to the predominant disability or specific residuals after treatment.
38 CFR Β§ 4.114 β Digestive System (eCFR) βScroll to DC 7344. Compare DC 7343 (malignant neoplasms) β distinct code with 100%-during-treatment mechanic. Common analogs: DC 7345 (chronic liver disease), DC 7305 (ulcer), DC 7319 (IBS), DC 7301 (adhesions, post-surgical).
Next Steps
If your rating decision lists DC 7344, compare your current symptoms and documentation against the criteria above. Consider:
- Requesting a copy of your rating decision and C&P exam report from the VA
- Gathering all relevant medical records (VA and private providers)
- Documenting functional limitations and how they impact work and daily activities
- Obtaining a nexus letter if needed to establish or strengthen service connection
- Filing for secondary conditions that may be related to this primary condition
- Contacting a VA-accredited VSO, claims agent, or attorney to review your file
This is general educational information only β not legal or medical advice.
Also: DC code lookup (tools) lists the same index in a compact layout.
Source: 38 CFR Part 4, Diagnostic Code 7344 β’ va.gov
β οΈ Important Disclaimer
This page provides general educational information only based on public VA regulations (38 CFR) and va.gov resources. It is not legal, medical, or claims assistance. Ratings and service connections are decided case-by-case by the VA based on the individual veteranβs evidence. We do not prepare claims, generate documents, or provide personalized advice. Always consult a VA-accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO), attorney, or your physician for help with your specific situation. Verify the latest rules on va.gov.