Hodgkin's lymphoma

The VA rates Hodgkin's lymphoma under Diagnostic Code 7709 at 100%. The minimum 100% rating requires: With active disease or during a treatment phase. The maximum 100% rating requires: With active disease or during a treatment phase.

The VA rates Hodgkin's lymphoma under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7709, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.117. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.

Yes — a 100% rating for Hodgkin's lymphoma alone meets the single-disability threshold for TDIU (38 CFR § 4.16). If the condition prevents substantially gainful employment, the veteran is compensated at the 100% rate without a schedular 100% rating.

The key evidence for Hodgkin's lymphoma is documentation of how the condition affects daily functioning. Treatment records showing worsening symptoms, functional limitations documented by your provider, and buddy statements describing observable impact on daily life all strengthen the claim. A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional linking the current severity to service is essential for contested claims.

The C&P examiner uses a Hematologic & Lymphatic System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 7709 rating criteria. The examiner documents symptom frequency, severity, and functional impact. Bring all treatment records and describe your worst days, not your best — the VA rates on the full clinical picture across time, not a snapshot of one good day.