Duodenal Ulcer
Duodenal Ulcer is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR Part 4, DC 7305, Diagnostic Code 7305, from 10% to 60% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 60% rating requires: Duodenal ulcer: Severe with recurrent incapacitating episodes averaging more than once a month of two to four weeks duration; or with prolonged episodes of total disability; or with weight loss of 20% or more from baseline; or complications (hemorrhage, perforation, obstruction requiring surgery).. Most claims establish the 10% or 20% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 7305 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 60%
- Rating tiers
- 4
- CFR section
- 38 CFR Part 4, DC 7305
- Body system
- Digestive System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
10%, 20%, 40%, 60%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Duodenal Ulcer?
Duodenal ulcer: Mild with less than one attack per year; or with slight impairment of health; or with slight weight loss; or with slight exacerbations of epigastric distress and vomiting less than once per month.
Duodenal ulcer: Moderate with one or two attacks per year, each of two to four weeks duration; or with impairment of health manifested by weight loss; or with anemia; or with recurrent epigastric distress with dysphagia; or with pyrosis; or with regurgitation.
Duodenal ulcer: Moderately severe with recurring attacks averaging one every two months with each lasting two to four weeks; or with impaired health with anemia, weight loss, strength loss, pain not wholly relieved by standard treatments; or with two or more hospitalizations in the past year.
Duodenal ulcer: Severe with recurrent incapacitating episodes averaging more than once a month of two to four weeks duration; or with prolonged episodes of total disability; or with weight loss of 20% or more from baseline; or complications (hemorrhage, perforation, obstruction requiring surgery).
“Duodenal ulcer: Moderately severe with recurring attacks averaging one every two months with each lasting two to four weeks; or with impaired health with anemia, weight loss, strength loss, pain not wholly relieved by standard treatments; or with two or more hospitalizations in the past year.”
Common Questions About Duodenal Ulcer VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Duodenal Ulcer?
The VA rates Duodenal Ulcer under Diagnostic Code 7305 at 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Duodenal ulcer: Mild with less than one attack per year; or with slight impairment of health; or with slight weight loss; or with slight exacerbations of epigastric distress and vomiting less than once per month.. The maximum 60% rating requires: Duodenal ulcer: Severe with recurrent incapacitating episodes averaging more than once a month of two to four weeks duration; or with prolonged episodes of total disability; or with weight loss of 20% or more from baseline; or complications (hemorrhage, perforation, obstruction requiring surgery)..
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Duodenal Ulcer?
The VA rates Duodenal Ulcer under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7305, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR Part 4, DC 7305. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 10% and a 60% rating for Duodenal Ulcer?
A 10% rating requires: Duodenal ulcer: Mild with less than one attack per year; or with slight impairment of health; or with slight weight loss; or with slight exacerbations of epigastric distress and vomiting less than once per month.. A 60% rating requires: Duodenal ulcer: Severe with recurrent incapacitating episodes averaging more than once a month of two to four weeks duration; or with prolonged episodes of total disability; or with weight loss of 20% or more from baseline; or complications (hemorrhage, perforation, obstruction requiring surgery).. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Duodenal Ulcer qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Duodenal Ulcer may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Duodenal Ulcer?
Service connection for Duodenal Ulcer requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.
What is the C&P exam like for Duodenal Ulcer?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Duodenal Ulcer uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.
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