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Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma VA Disability Rating
DC 7715 | 38 C.F.R. § 4.117 | M21-1, Part IV.ii.2.G
OVERVIEW
Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL) is rated at 100% during active disease under DC 7715 at 38 C.F.R. § 4.117. NHL is a presumptive condition for veterans with Agent Orange exposure under 38 C.F.R. § 3.309(e). Two years after treatment cessation, mandatory VA examination required. If no recurrence, ratings are based on residuals.
RATING CRITERIA (2 LEVELS)
100% — Active disease or during treatment, or indolent low-grade NHL
When there is active disease, during treatment phase, or with indolent and non-contiguous phase of low-grade NHL. Continues beyond cessation of therapy. Two years after discontinuance, mandatory VA examination required.
Residuals — Rate separately after remission
If in remission with no recurrence at 2-year examination, rate residuals of disease or treatment under appropriate diagnostic codes.
KEY EVIDENCE TO GATHER
-Pathology report (biopsy) confirming NHL with subtype and stage
-Service records documenting Agent Orange/herbicide exposure
-Oncology treatment records
-Complete blood counts and imaging (PET/CT)
-Records of treatment complications: neuropathy, infections
-Documentation of remission status and follow-up
SECONDARY CONDITIONS (3 MAPPED)
DC 8520
Chemotherapy (vincristine, platinum-based agents) causes peripheral neuropathy.
DC Various
Radiation treatment for NHL increases secondary cancer risk.
DC 7700
Treatment-related anemia and chronic fatigue are common NHL therapy residuals.
C&P EXAM TIPS (4)
1.NHL is an Agent Orange presumptive — service connection is automatic with qualifying exposure.
2.File immediately upon diagnosis — protect your effective date.
3.At the 2-year mandatory exam, have your oncologist document all residual effects of treatment.
4.Peripheral neuropathy from chemotherapy is separately ratable.
RELEVANT CASE LAW
38 C.F.R. § 3.309(e) — Agent Orange Presumptives
Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is presumptive for veterans with qualifying herbicide exposure. All forms of NHL are covered including low-grade indolent lymphomas.
DOLLAR IMPACT
100% during active disease: $3,938.58/mo. Agent Orange presumptive means immediate service connection. File same day as diagnosis.
EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
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