Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

DC 7703Hematologic/Lymphatic38 CFR 4.117, DC 7703

A slow-growing cancer of the blood and bone marrow that affects white blood cells called lymphocytes. CLL often does not need treatment right away (watch and wait). The VA rates CLL at 100% during active disease requiring treatment. If you are on watch-and-wait, the VA rates your current symptoms.

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 7703

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.117, DC 7703. 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 CLL requiring active treatment (chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, or stem cell transplant). The 100% rating continues for six months after treatment ends.

What the VA looks for

Pathology confirming CLL diagnosis
Flow cytometry results
Active treatment records (chemotherapy, immunotherapy)
Oncology progress notes documenting disease activity
CBC showing elevated lymphocytes

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding that CLL on watch-and-wait can still be service-connected at 0% — you do not need to be on treatment to establish service connection.
⚠Not documenting symptoms during watch-and-wait such as fatigue, frequent infections, and enlarged lymph nodes, which can support a compensable rating based on residuals.
⚠Failing to file for secondary conditions — CLL weakens your immune system and can cause frequent infections, anemia, and thrombocytopenia that may warrant separate ratings.
⚠Not connecting CLL to Agent Orange exposure, ionizing radiation, or other service-related chemical exposures that are recognized causes.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Hematologic and Lymphatic Conditions

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7703

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have CLL requiring active treatment (chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, or stem cell transplant). The 100% rating continues for six months after treatment ends.

What the VA looks for

Pathology confirming CLL diagnosis
Flow cytometry results
Active treatment records (chemotherapy, immunotherapy)
Oncology progress notes documenting disease activity
CBC showing elevated lymphocytes

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding that CLL on watch-and-wait can still be service-connected at 0% — you do not need to be on treatment to establish service connection.

⚠Not documenting symptoms during watch-and-wait such as fatigue, frequent infections, and enlarged lymph nodes, which can support a compensable rating based on residuals.

⚠Failing to file for secondary conditions — CLL weakens your immune system and can cause frequent infections, anemia, and thrombocytopenia that may warrant separate ratings.

⚠Not connecting CLL to Agent Orange exposure, ionizing radiation, or other service-related chemical exposures that are recognized causes.