DC 7121Cardiovascular38 CFR § 4.104Last verified: APR 8, 2026

Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7121)

The VA rates Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7121, from 0% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires Massive board-like edema with constant pain at rest. Related conditions in the Cardiovascular body system share this rating framework.

What are the VA rating criteria for Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology?

0%Disability Rating

Asymptomatic palpable or visible varicose veins

10%Disability Rating

Intermittent edema of extremity or aching and fatigue in leg after prolonged standing or walking, with symptoms relieved by elevation of extremity or compression hosiery

20%Disability Rating

Persistent edema, incompletely relieved by elevation of extremity, with or without beginning stasis pigmentation or eczema

40%Disability Rating

Persistent edema and stasis pigmentation or eczema, with or without intermittent ulceration

60%Disability Rating

Persistent edema or subcutaneous induration, stasis pigmentation or eczema, and persistent ulceration

100%Disability Rating

Massive board-like edema with constant pain at rest

Persistent edema and stasis pigmentation or eczema, with or without intermittent ulceration
— 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7121 (40% tier)

Common Questions About Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology VA Ratings

What is the VA disability rating for Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology?

The VA rates Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology under Diagnostic Code 7121 at the following tiers: 0%, 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Asymptomatic palpable or visible varicose veins. The maximum 100% rating requires: Massive board-like edema with constant pain at rest.

What is Diagnostic Code 7121?

Diagnostic Code 7121 is the VA rating identifier for Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104. 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.

What is the highest rating for Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology?

The highest schedular rating for Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology under DC 7121 is 100%. This tier requires: Massive board-like edema with constant pain at rest. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

What 38 CFR section governs Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology ratings?

Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7121. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Which conditions are commonly secondary to Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology?

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology?

Service connection for Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology 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.

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