Angioneurotic Edema

DC 7118Cardiovascular38 CFR 4.104, DC 7118

A condition characterized by episodes of rapid swelling beneath the skin, often affecting the face, lips, tongue, throat, hands, or feet. Attacks can be hereditary or acquired and may be life-threatening when the airway is involved. The VA rates angioneurotic edema based on how frequently attacks occur and whether they involve the larynx (voice box).

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how often symptoms occur and how severe each episode is. The examiner will ask about the frequency, duration, and intensity of your episodes, as well as how they affect your ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7118

Rating range

10% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.104, DC 7118. 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 attacks occurring more than eight times per year, or you have attacks with laryngeal involvement occurring more than four times per year. Your condition requires you to carry emergency medication at all times and significantly limits your activities.

What the VA looks for

Documented attacks more than 8 times per year
Frequent laryngeal involvement (more than 4 times per year)
Multiple emergency department visits or hospitalizations
Prophylactic medication regimen
Significant activity limitation due to unpredictable attacks

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not seeking medical attention for every attack — even mild swelling episodes should be documented in medical records. Frequency of attacks determines the rating level, and undocumented attacks do not count.
⚠Not documenting laryngeal involvement — throat swelling or difficulty breathing during an attack qualifies for a higher rating. If you experience any throat tightness, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing during an episode, report it immediately.
⚠Not getting C1 esterase inhibitor testing — for hereditary angioedema, lab confirmation with C1-INH levels and C4 complement helps establish the diagnosis and can support a service aggravation claim.
⚠Not keeping an epinephrine auto-injector and documenting its prescription — the need for emergency medication supports the seriousness of the condition.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Artery and Vein Conditions

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Condition Rating Guides

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Angioneurotic Edema

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7118

Rating range

10% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Documented attacks more than 8 times per year
Frequent laryngeal involvement (more than 4 times per year)
Multiple emergency department visits or hospitalizations
Prophylactic medication regimen
Significant activity limitation due to unpredictable attacks

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not seeking medical attention for every attack — even mild swelling episodes should be documented in medical records. Frequency of attacks determines the rating level, and undocumented attacks do not count.

⚠Not documenting laryngeal involvement — throat swelling or difficulty breathing during an attack qualifies for a higher rating. If you experience any throat tightness, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing during an episode, report it immediately.

⚠Not getting C1 esterase inhibitor testing — for hereditary angioedema, lab confirmation with C1-INH levels and C4 complement helps establish the diagnosis and can support a service aggravation claim.

⚠Not keeping an epinephrine auto-injector and documenting its prescription — the need for emergency medication supports the seriousness of the condition.