Raynaud's syndrome (also known as secondary Raynaud's phenomenon or secondary Raynaud's)
Raynaud's syndrome (also known as secondary Raynaud's phenomenon or secondary Raynaud's) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7117, from 10% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: With two or more digital ulcers plus auto-amputation of one or more digits and history of characteristic attacks. Most claims establish the 10% or 20% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 7117 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 100%
- Rating tiers
- 5
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.104
- Body system
- Cardiovascular System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
Full schedular disability
10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 100%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Raynaud's syndrome (also known as secondary Raynaud's phenomenon or secondary Raynaud's)?
Characteristic attacks occurring one to three times a week
Characteristic attacks occurring four to six times a week
Characteristic attacks occurring at least daily
With two or more digital ulcers and history of characteristic attacks
With two or more digital ulcers plus auto-amputation of one or more digits and history of characteristic attacks
“Characteristic attacks occurring at least daily”
Common Questions About Raynaud's syndrome (also known as secondary Raynaud's phenomenon or secondary Raynaud's) VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Raynaud's syndrome (also known as secondary Raynaud's phenomenon or secondary Raynaud's)?
The VA rates Raynaud's syndrome (also known as secondary Raynaud's phenomenon or secondary Raynaud's) under Diagnostic Code 7117 at 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Characteristic attacks occurring one to three times a week. The maximum 100% rating requires: With two or more digital ulcers plus auto-amputation of one or more digits and history of characteristic attacks.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Raynaud's syndrome (also known as secondary Raynaud's phenomenon or secondary Raynaud's)?
The VA rates Raynaud's syndrome (also known as secondary Raynaud's phenomenon or secondary Raynaud's) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7117, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104. 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 Raynaud's syndrome (also known as secondary Raynaud's phenomenon or secondary Raynaud's)?
A 10% rating requires: Characteristic attacks occurring one to three times a week. A 100% rating requires: With two or more digital ulcers plus auto-amputation of one or more digits and history of characteristic attacks. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Raynaud's syndrome (also known as secondary Raynaud's phenomenon or secondary Raynaud's) qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Raynaud's syndrome (also known as secondary Raynaud's phenomenon or secondary Raynaud's) 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 Raynaud's syndrome (also known as secondary Raynaud's phenomenon or secondary Raynaud's)?
Service connection for Raynaud's syndrome (also known as secondary Raynaud's phenomenon or secondary Raynaud's) 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 Raynaud's syndrome (also known as secondary Raynaud's phenomenon or secondary Raynaud's)?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Raynaud's syndrome (also known as secondary Raynaud's phenomenon or secondary Raynaud's) 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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