Essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis
Essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.117, Diagnostic Code 7718, from 0% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: Requiring either continuous myelosuppressive therapy, or, for six months following hospital admission for any of the following treatments: peripheral blood or bone marrow stem cell transplant, or chemotherapy, or interferon treatment. Most claims establish the 0% or 30% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 7718 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 100%
- Rating tiers
- 4
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.117
- Body system
- Hematologic & Lymphatic System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
Full schedular disability
0%, 30%, 70%, 100%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis?
Asymptomatic
Requiring continuous or intermittent myelosuppressive therapy, or chemotherapy, or interferon treatment to maintain platelet count of 200,000-400,000, or white blood cell (WBC) count of 4,000-10,000
Requiring continuous or intermittent myelosuppressive therapy, or chemotherapy, or interferon treatment to maintain platelet count <500 × 10/L 9
Requiring either continuous myelosuppressive therapy, or, for six months following hospital admission for any of the following treatments: peripheral blood or bone marrow stem cell transplant, or chemotherapy, or interferon treatment
“Requiring continuous or intermittent myelosuppressive therapy, or chemotherapy, or interferon treatment to maintain platelet count <500 × 10/L 9”
Common Questions About Essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis?
The VA rates Essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis under Diagnostic Code 7718 at 0%, 30%, 70%, 100%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Asymptomatic. The maximum 100% rating requires: Requiring either continuous myelosuppressive therapy, or, for six months following hospital admission for any of the following treatments: peripheral blood or bone marrow stem cell transplant, or chemotherapy, or interferon treatment.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis?
The VA rates Essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7718, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.117. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 0% and a 100% rating for Essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis?
A 0% rating requires: Asymptomatic. A 100% rating requires: Requiring either continuous myelosuppressive therapy, or, for six months following hospital admission for any of the following treatments: peripheral blood or bone marrow stem cell transplant, or chemotherapy, or interferon treatment. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis 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 Essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis?
Service connection for Essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis 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 Essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis 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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