Hodgkin's Disease (Hodgkin Lymphoma)

DC 7709Hematologic/Lymphatic38 CFR 4.117, DC 7709

A type of lymphoma (cancer of the lymphatic system) that usually starts in the lymph nodes. The VA rates Hodgkin's disease at 100% during active disease or treatment. Six months after treatment ends, the VA rates any remaining problems based on how they affect you.

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 7709

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.117, DC 7709. 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 active Hodgkin's disease or are currently undergoing treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, stem cell transplant). The 100% rating continues for six months after treatment ends.

What the VA looks for

Pathology confirming Hodgkin lymphoma (Reed-Sternberg cells)
Staging workup (PET/CT scan results)
Treatment records (ABVD chemotherapy, radiation)
Oncology progress notes
Lymph node biopsy results

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not filing immediately when diagnosed — the 100% rating starts from the date the VA receives your claim, so delay costs you benefits.
⚠Not documenting residual effects after treatment — chemotherapy and radiation commonly cause lasting fatigue, neuropathy, thyroid damage, heart problems, and secondary cancers that each warrant separate ratings.
⚠Not connecting Hodgkin's disease to Agent Orange or herbicide exposure, ionizing radiation, or other service-related toxic exposures.
⚠Missing the mandatory six-month post-treatment VA exam — this is critical for documenting your residual conditions before the rating is reduced from 100%.

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…

Hodgkin's Disease (Hodgkin Lymphoma)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7709

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have active Hodgkin's disease or are currently undergoing treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, stem cell transplant). The 100% rating continues for six months after treatment ends.

What the VA looks for

Pathology confirming Hodgkin lymphoma (Reed-Sternberg cells)
Staging workup (PET/CT scan results)
Treatment records (ABVD chemotherapy, radiation)
Oncology progress notes
Lymph node biopsy results

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not filing immediately when diagnosed — the 100% rating starts from the date the VA receives your claim, so delay costs you benefits.

⚠Not documenting residual effects after treatment — chemotherapy and radiation commonly cause lasting fatigue, neuropathy, thyroid damage, heart problems, and secondary cancers that each warrant separate ratings.

⚠Not connecting Hodgkin's disease to Agent Orange or herbicide exposure, ionizing radiation, or other service-related toxic exposures.

⚠Missing the mandatory six-month post-treatment VA exam — this is critical for documenting your residual conditions before the rating is reduced from 100%.