Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia

DC 7703Hematologic/Lymphatic38 CFR 4.117, DC 7703

A type of blood cancer characterized by the Philadelphia chromosome (BCR-ABL gene fusion) that causes the bone marrow to produce too many abnormal white blood cells. The VA rates CML based on the phase of disease and the treatment required, including lifelong tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy.

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 CML in accelerated or blast phase, are undergoing stem cell transplant, or have disease refractory to all available TKI therapy.

What the VA looks for

Accelerated phase or blast crisis documented
Stem cell transplant performed or planned
Refractory to multiple lines of TKI therapy
Hospitalization for disease complications
Elevated blast count on bone marrow biopsy

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding that lifelong TKI therapy is a significant disability in itself — document all side effects including fatigue, muscle cramps, fluid retention, diarrhea, and cardiac effects.
⚠Failing to document the frequency and cost of required laboratory monitoring (CBC every 3 months, BCR-ABL PCR every 3-6 months, bone marrow biopsies) that demonstrate the ongoing treatment burden.
⚠Not connecting CML to benzene exposure, ionizing radiation, or chemical exposures during military service — these are established risk factors.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions from TKI side effects such as cardiac toxicity, pleural effusions, thyroid dysfunction, or musculoskeletal problems.

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 Myelogenous Leukemia

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7703

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have CML in accelerated or blast phase, are undergoing stem cell transplant, or have disease refractory to all available TKI therapy.

What the VA looks for

Accelerated phase or blast crisis documented
Stem cell transplant performed or planned
Refractory to multiple lines of TKI therapy
Hospitalization for disease complications
Elevated blast count on bone marrow biopsy

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding that lifelong TKI therapy is a significant disability in itself — document all side effects including fatigue, muscle cramps, fluid retention, diarrhea, and cardiac effects.

⚠Failing to document the frequency and cost of required laboratory monitoring (CBC every 3 months, BCR-ABL PCR every 3-6 months, bone marrow biopsies) that demonstrate the ongoing treatment burden.

⚠Not connecting CML to benzene exposure, ionizing radiation, or chemical exposures during military service — these are established risk factors.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions from TKI side effects such as cardiac toxicity, pleural effusions, thyroid dysfunction, or musculoskeletal problems.