Chronic Lymphopenia

DC 7716Hematologic/Lymphatic38 CFR 4.117, DC 7716

A condition where your blood has a consistently low number of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that fights infections. This weakens your immune system and makes you more likely to get sick. The VA rates chronic lymphopenia based on how often you get infections and what 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 7716

Rating range

0% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.117, DC 7716. 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

Your lymphopenia causes severe, recurrent, or life-threatening infections despite preventive treatment. You need aggressive immunoglobulin therapy and have significant daily limitations.

What the VA looks for

Absolute lymphocyte count consistently below 200 cells/mcL
Opportunistic or life-threatening infections documented
Aggressive immunoglobulin replacement therapy required
Frequent hospitalizations for infection management
Significant work and social restrictions due to immunodeficiency

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not providing serial CBC results showing the lymphocyte count over time — a single low count is not enough. The VA needs to see that the lymphopenia is chronic and persistent.
⚠Failing to document every infection, including seemingly minor ones — a pattern of frequent infections proves that your immune system is compromised and supports a higher rating.
⚠Not connecting lymphopenia to service-related causes such as radiation exposure, chemical exposures, medications taken during service, or chronic infections acquired during deployment.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — chronic lymphopenia with recurrent infections can lead to chronic lung disease, chronic sinusitis, and other complications that may be rated separately.

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…

Chronic Lymphopenia

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7716

Rating range

0% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your lymphopenia causes severe, recurrent, or life-threatening infections despite preventive treatment. You need aggressive immunoglobulin therapy and have significant daily limitations.

What the VA looks for

Absolute lymphocyte count consistently below 200 cells/mcL
Opportunistic or life-threatening infections documented
Aggressive immunoglobulin replacement therapy required
Frequent hospitalizations for infection management
Significant work and social restrictions due to immunodeficiency

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not providing serial CBC results showing the lymphocyte count over time — a single low count is not enough. The VA needs to see that the lymphopenia is chronic and persistent.

⚠Failing to document every infection, including seemingly minor ones — a pattern of frequent infections proves that your immune system is compromised and supports a higher rating.

⚠Not connecting lymphopenia to service-related causes such as radiation exposure, chemical exposures, medications taken during service, or chronic infections acquired during deployment.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — chronic lymphopenia with recurrent infections can lead to chronic lung disease, chronic sinusitis, and other complications that may be rated separately.