A muscle is defined as tissue composed of cells or fibers that effect movement of an organ or part of the body via contraction. A neoplasm refers to a new and abnormal tissue formation, such as a tumor or growth. A malignant neoplasm refers to a tumor which infiltrates surrounding tissue, spreads to other areas, and often recurs. In this case, the process occurs in the muscle.

A malignant neoplasm may be caused by a variety of elements such as chemicals; radiation agents; biologic agents such as viruses; and dietary factors. Heredity may also be a factor. Muscle tumors are rare, and are usually benign. They may arise from benign lesions or result from metastatic lesions.

Signs and symptoms of the condition may manifest as a lump in a muscle that may be felt on the surface of the skin. There may or may not be pain. The size of the lump may rapidly increase. There may be change in muscle function or sensation. Swelling, redness, or restricted range of motion may occur.

X-ray; magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); computed tomography (CT) scan; ultrasonography; blood studies; tumor markers; tissue biopsy; and tumor staging may be required.

Treatment may be directed toward curative or palliative measures depending on the confinement or spread of the tumor. Malignant muscle tumors usually require surgical removal. Chemotherapy or radiation treatments may be necessary.

The outcome may depend on the type and extent of muscle tissue involved, the treatment employed, as well as any metastasis throughout the body. Muscle weakness or muscle deformity may result, and there may be an alteration in self-image. In addition, counseling, psychotherapy, and support groups may be indicated to assist the patient in dealing with the diagnosis.

• In all claims in which it is established that a radiogenic disease first became manifest after service and was not manifest to a compensable degree within any applicable presumptive period as specified in 38 CFR 3.307 or 38 CFR 3.309, and it is contended the disease is a result of exposure to ionizing radiation in service, procedures outlined in 38 CFR 3.311 should be followed to determine if a positive correlation to the Veteran’s military service exists. [38 CFR 3.311 [Claims based on exposure to ionizing radiation]]

• This disease shall be granted service connection although not otherwise established as incurred in or aggravated by service if manifested to a compensable degree within the applicable time limits under 38 CFR 3.307 following service in a period of war or following peacetime service on or after January 1, 1947, provided the rebuttable presumption provisions of 38 CFR 3.307 are also satisfied. [38 CFR 3.309 [Disease subject to presumptive service connection], 38 CFR 3.309(a) [chronic disease].

• A rating of 100 percent shall continue beyond the cessation of any surgery, radiation treatment, antineoplastic chemotherapy or other therapeutic procedures. Six months after discontinuance of such treatment, the appropriate disability rating shall be determined by mandatory VA examination. Any change in evaluation based upon that or any subsequent examination shall be subject to the provisions of 38 CFR 3.105(e) of this chapter. If there has been no local recurrence or metastasis, rate on residual impairment of function.