Hemophilia

DC 7707Hematologic/Lymphatic38 CFR 4.117, DC 7707

A bleeding disorder where your blood does not clot properly because you are missing or have low levels of clotting factors. This causes prolonged bleeding from cuts, easy bruising, and bleeding into joints and muscles. The VA rates hemophilia based on bleeding frequency and the need for factor replacement.

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 7707

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.117, DC 7707. 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 hemophilia causes life-threatening bleeding episodes, or you have developed inhibitors to factor replacement, requiring bypassing agents.

What the VA looks for

Life-threatening hemorrhage episodes
Factor inhibitor development confirmed
Bypassing agent therapy (FEIBA, NovoSeven)
Hospitalization for bleeding complications
Severe hemophilic arthropathy limiting mobility

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not keeping a detailed bleeding log — documenting every bleeding episode (date, location, severity, treatment) is critical evidence for your rating.
⚠Failing to document joint damage from repeated bleeding episodes — X-rays and MRIs of affected joints showing hemophilic arthropathy support both your hematologic and potential musculoskeletal ratings.
⚠Not filing for secondary joint conditions separately — hemophilic arthropathy in the knees, elbows, and ankles can be rated under musculoskeletal codes in addition to your hemophilia rating.
⚠Not reporting the development of inhibitors (antibodies against factor replacement) which dramatically changes treatment and qualifies for higher ratings.

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…

Hemophilia

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7707

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your hemophilia causes life-threatening bleeding episodes, or you have developed inhibitors to factor replacement, requiring bypassing agents.

What the VA looks for

Life-threatening hemorrhage episodes
Factor inhibitor development confirmed
Bypassing agent therapy (FEIBA, NovoSeven)
Hospitalization for bleeding complications
Severe hemophilic arthropathy limiting mobility

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not keeping a detailed bleeding log — documenting every bleeding episode (date, location, severity, treatment) is critical evidence for your rating.

⚠Failing to document joint damage from repeated bleeding episodes — X-rays and MRIs of affected joints showing hemophilic arthropathy support both your hematologic and potential musculoskeletal ratings.

⚠Not filing for secondary joint conditions separately — hemophilic arthropathy in the knees, elbows, and ankles can be rated under musculoskeletal codes in addition to your hemophilia rating.

⚠Not reporting the development of inhibitors (antibodies against factor replacement) which dramatically changes treatment and qualifies for higher ratings.