Hereditary Hemolytic Anemia

DC 7700Hematologic/Lymphatic38 CFR 4.117, DC 7700

A group of inherited blood conditions where your red blood cells are destroyed faster than your body can make new ones. This includes conditions like hereditary spherocytosis and G6PD deficiency. The VA rates hereditary hemolytic anemia based on your hemoglobin levels, how often you need transfusions, and whether your spleen is enlarged.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 7700

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.117, DC 7700. 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 hemoglobin is consistently 5gm/100ml or less. You need frequent blood transfusions, have severe organ complications, and are unable to work.

What the VA looks for

Hemoglobin 5gm/100ml or less consistently
Frequent blood transfusions (monthly or more)
High output congestive heart failure
Severe iron overload requiring chelation therapy
Unable to maintain gainful employment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not providing serial hemoglobin levels over time — a single blood test may miss the severity of hemolytic crises. Request copies of all CBCs from the past 12 months, especially during acute episodes.
⚠Not documenting the specific type of hereditary hemolytic anemia (spherocytosis, G6PD deficiency, thalassemia) — the specific diagnosis helps establish the chronic, lifelong nature of the condition.
⚠Not claiming aggravation — while hereditary, the physical demands, infections, and medication exposures during military service can significantly worsen hemolytic anemia beyond its natural progression.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions: chronic hemolysis causes gallstones, iron overload, splenomegaly, and cardiac complications that can each be rated separately.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Hematologic and Lymphatic Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Hereditary Hemolytic Anemia

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7700

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your hemoglobin is consistently 5gm/100ml or less. You need frequent blood transfusions, have severe organ complications, and are unable to work.

What the VA looks for

Hemoglobin 5gm/100ml or less consistently
Frequent blood transfusions (monthly or more)
High output congestive heart failure
Severe iron overload requiring chelation therapy
Unable to maintain gainful employment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not providing serial hemoglobin levels over time — a single blood test may miss the severity of hemolytic crises. Request copies of all CBCs from the past 12 months, especially during acute episodes.

⚠Not documenting the specific type of hereditary hemolytic anemia (spherocytosis, G6PD deficiency, thalassemia) — the specific diagnosis helps establish the chronic, lifelong nature of the condition.

⚠Not claiming aggravation — while hereditary, the physical demands, infections, and medication exposures during military service can significantly worsen hemolytic anemia beyond its natural progression.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions: chronic hemolysis causes gallstones, iron overload, splenomegaly, and cardiac complications that can each be rated separately.