Agranulocytosis (Acquired)

DC 7702Hematologic/Lymphatic38 CFR 4.117, DC 7702

A dangerous drop in white blood cells (neutrophils) that leaves you highly vulnerable to infections. Acquired agranulocytosis can be caused by medications, chemical exposures, radiation, or autoimmune conditions related to military service. The VA rates this condition based on how often you get infections, how frequently your neutrophil counts drop, and how much treatment you need.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type and intensity of treatment you require. Higher ratings correspond to more aggressive treatment regimens, such as daily medication, insulin dependence, or the need for ongoing medical management.

Diagnostic code

DC 7702

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.117, DC 7702. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have refractory agranulocytosis with recurrent sepsis, organ damage from infections, or the need for bone marrow transplant. You cannot work or care for yourself due to the constant infection risk.

What the VA looks for

Refractory agranulocytosis despite all treatments
Recurrent sepsis with ICU admissions
End-organ damage from severe infections
Bone marrow transplant performed or indicated
Total disability and inability to perform self-care

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not identifying the service-connected cause — medications prescribed during service (certain antibiotics, anticonvulsants, antithyroid drugs), chemical exposures, and radiation are well-documented causes of acquired agranulocytosis.
⚠Failing to document every infection episode and hospitalization — the frequency and severity of infections are the primary basis for your rating.
⚠Not requesting serial CBC results showing neutropenia patterns — a single normal blood count does not disprove chronic agranulocytosis, which can be cyclic.
⚠Overlooking secondary conditions from recurrent infections such as chronic lung disease, organ damage, or anxiety/depression from living with severe immunodeficiency.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Hematologic and Lymphatic Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

Agranulocytosis (Acquired)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7702

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Refractory agranulocytosis despite all treatments
Recurrent sepsis with ICU admissions
End-organ damage from severe infections
Bone marrow transplant performed or indicated
Total disability and inability to perform self-care

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not identifying the service-connected cause — medications prescribed during service (certain antibiotics, anticonvulsants, antithyroid drugs), chemical exposures, and radiation are well-documented causes of acquired agranulocytosis.

⚠Failing to document every infection episode and hospitalization — the frequency and severity of infections are the primary basis for your rating.

⚠Not requesting serial CBC results showing neutropenia patterns — a single normal blood count does not disprove chronic agranulocytosis, which can be cyclic.

⚠Overlooking secondary conditions from recurrent infections such as chronic lung disease, organ damage, or anxiety/depression from living with severe immunodeficiency.