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Multiple Myeloma VA Disability Rating
DC 7712 | 38 C.F.R. § 4.117 | M21-1, Part IV.ii.2.G
OVERVIEW
Multiple Myeloma is rated under DC 7712 at 38 C.F.R. § 4.117. Symptomatic multiple myeloma rates 100%; asymptomatic smoldering myeloma or MGUS (monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance) rates 0%. Multiple myeloma is a presumptive condition for veterans with Agent Orange exposure under 38 C.F.R. § 3.309(e). The 100% evaluation continues for 5 years after diagnosis, after which mandatory VA examination determines residuals.
RATING CRITERIA (2 LEVELS)
100% — Symptomatic multiple myeloma
Symptomatic multiple myeloma (active disease with CRAB criteria: hyperCalcemia, Renal insufficiency, Anemia, Bone lesions). 100% continues for 5 years after diagnosis. Note: validated biomarkers per ASH/IMWG definitions acceptable.
0% — Asymptomatic smoldering myeloma or MGUS
Asymptomatic smoldering or MGUS. File for service connection now — when symptoms develop, rating upgrades and back-pay runs from original claim date.
KEY EVIDENCE TO GATHER
-Bone marrow biopsy confirming plasma cell percentage
-SPEP/UPEP showing M-protein
-Bone survey or PET-CT showing lytic lesions
-Free light chain assay results
-Serum calcium, creatinine, hemoglobin confirming CRAB criteria
-Agent Orange exposure records
-Oncology treatment records
SECONDARY CONDITIONS (4 MAPPED)
DC 7500/7530
Multiple myeloma causes myeloma kidney — rate separately.
DC 8520
Myeloma and treatment (bortezomib, thalidomide) cause peripheral neuropathy.
DC 5235
Lytic bone lesions cause pathological fractures — rate residuals separately.
DC 7700
Multiple myeloma causes anemia through bone marrow suppression.
C&P EXAM TIPS (4)
1.Multiple myeloma is an Agent Orange presumptive — file immediately with AO exposure.
2.For MGUS: file for service connection even at 0% — protects effective date for when myeloma develops.
3.The 100% rating continues for 5 years post-diagnosis, not just during treatment.
4.Document all treatment complications at the 5-year exam.
RELEVANT CASE LAW
38 C.F.R. § 3.309(e) — Agent Orange Presumptives
Multiple myeloma is presumptive for veterans with qualifying herbicide exposure. No nexus opinion required.
DOLLAR IMPACT
100% for 5 years: $3,938.58/mo ($236,314 over 5 years at base rate). Residuals after 5-year period typically support 30-70% combined ratings. Agent Orange presumptive — no nexus fight.
EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026