Thrombo-angiitis obliterans (Buerger's Disease) — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7115)

The VA rates Thrombo-angiitis obliterans (Buerger's Disease) under Diagnostic Code 7115 at the following tiers: 20%, 40%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 20% rating requires: Diminished upper extremity pulses. The maximum 100% rating requires: Deep ischemic ulcers and necrosis of the fingers with persistent coldness of the extremity, trophic changes with pains in the hand during physical activity, and diminished upper extremity pulses.

Diagnostic Code 7115 is the VA rating identifier for Thrombo-angiitis obliterans (Buerger's Disease) 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.

The highest schedular rating for Thrombo-angiitis obliterans (Buerger's Disease) under DC 7115 is 100%. This tier requires: Deep ischemic ulcers and necrosis of the fingers with persistent coldness of the extremity, trophic changes with pains in the hand during physical activity, and diminished upper extremity pulses. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Thrombo-angiitis obliterans (Buerger's Disease) alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Thrombo-angiitis obliterans (Buerger's Disease) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7115. 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 Thrombo-angiitis obliterans (Buerger's Disease) 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 Thrombo-angiitis obliterans (Buerger's Disease) 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.