Malignant neoplasm of ethmoid sinus
VA doesn't add ratings together. It combines them using the table in 38 CFR § 4.25, so two ratings usually total less than their sum.
While the cancer is active or treatment is ongoing, the diagnosis itself and records confirming active treatment are the central evidence. This includes pathology reports confirming a malignant neoplasm of the ethmoid sinus, oncology or surgical records, radiation treatment logs, and chemotherapy records.
After treatment ends and VA schedules the mandatory six-month examination, the evidence shifts. Imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans, PET scans, and biopsy results help show whether there has been any local recurrence or metastasis. If the cancer has not returned, records documenting lasting effects of the disease or treatment become important. These might include documentation of breathing difficulty, facial pain, vision changes, nerve damage, or other functional losses tied to the ethmoid sinus area.
Statements from you describing how any remaining symptoms affect your work, daily activities, and quality of life can help VA understand the severity of residuals when assigning a rating after the six-month examination.
VA exam form (DBQ) for this condition:
If your service meets the rules below, VA presumes this condition is connected to it.
Conditions that are often caused or made worse by this one. If you have any of these, they may be claimable as secondary service connection.
