Chronic liver disease without cirrhosis — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7345)

The VA rates Chronic liver disease without cirrhosis under Diagnostic Code 7345 at the following tiers: 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Previous history of liver disease, currently asymptomatic. The maximum 100% rating requires: Progressive chronic liver disease requiring use of both parenteral antiviral therapy (direct antiviral agents), and parenteral immunomodulatory therapy (interferon and other); and for six months following discontinuance of treatment.

Diagnostic Code 7345 is the VA rating identifier for Chronic liver disease without cirrhosis within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.114. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Chronic liver disease without cirrhosis under DC 7345 is 100%. This tier requires: Progressive chronic liver disease requiring use of both parenteral antiviral therapy (direct antiviral agents), and parenteral immunomodulatory therapy (interferon and other); and for six months following discontinuance of treatment. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Chronic liver disease without cirrhosis alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Chronic liver disease without cirrhosis is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.114, Diagnostic Code 7345. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Chronic liver disease without cirrhosis may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Chronic liver disease without cirrhosis requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.