Leukemia (except for chronic myelogenous leukemia) — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7703)

The VA rates Leukemia (except for chronic myelogenous leukemia) under Diagnostic Code 7703 at the following tiers: 0%, 100%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia or monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis (MBL), asymptomatic, Rai Stage 0. The maximum 100% rating requires: When there is active disease or during a treatment phase.

Diagnostic Code 7703 is the VA rating identifier for Leukemia (except for chronic myelogenous leukemia) within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.117. 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 Leukemia (except for chronic myelogenous leukemia) under DC 7703 is 100%. This tier requires: When there is active disease or during a treatment phase. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Leukemia (except for chronic myelogenous leukemia) alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Leukemia (except for chronic myelogenous leukemia) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.117, Diagnostic Code 7703. 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 Leukemia (except for chronic myelogenous leukemia) 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 Leukemia (except for chronic myelogenous leukemia) 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.