Polycythemia vera
Polycythemia vera is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.117, Diagnostic Code 7704, from 10% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: Requiring peripheral blood or bone marrow stem-cell transplant or chemotherapy (including myelosuppressants) for the purpose of ameliorating the symptom burden. Most claims establish the 10% or 30% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 7704 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- 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
10%, 30%, 60%, 100%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Polycythemia vera?
Requiring phlebotomy 3 or fewer times per 12-month period or if requiring biologic therapy or interferon on an intermittent basis as needed to maintain all blood values at reference range levels
Requiring phlebotomy 4-5 times per 12-month period, or if requiring continuous biologic therapy or myelosuppressive agents, to include interferon, to maintain platelets <200,000 or white blood cells (WBC) <12,000
Requiring phlebotomy 6 or more times per 12-month period or molecularly targeted therapy for the purpose of controlling RBC count
Requiring peripheral blood or bone marrow stem-cell transplant or chemotherapy (including myelosuppressants) for the purpose of ameliorating the symptom burden
“Requiring phlebotomy 6 or more times per 12-month period or molecularly targeted therapy for the purpose of controlling RBC count”
Common Questions About Polycythemia vera VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Polycythemia vera?
The VA rates Polycythemia vera under Diagnostic Code 7704 at 10%, 30%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Requiring phlebotomy 3 or fewer times per 12-month period or if requiring biologic therapy or interferon on an intermittent basis as needed to maintain all blood values at reference range levels. The maximum 100% rating requires: Requiring peripheral blood or bone marrow stem-cell transplant or chemotherapy (including myelosuppressants) for the purpose of ameliorating the symptom burden.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Polycythemia vera?
The VA rates Polycythemia vera under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7704, 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 10% and a 100% rating for Polycythemia vera?
A 10% rating requires: Requiring phlebotomy 3 or fewer times per 12-month period or if requiring biologic therapy or interferon on an intermittent basis as needed to maintain all blood values at reference range levels. A 100% rating requires: Requiring peripheral blood or bone marrow stem-cell transplant or chemotherapy (including myelosuppressants) for the purpose of ameliorating the symptom burden. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Polycythemia vera qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Polycythemia vera 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 Polycythemia vera?
Service connection for Polycythemia vera 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 Polycythemia vera?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Polycythemia vera 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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