Hookworm Disease Residuals

DC 6302Infectious Diseases38 CFR 4.88a, DC 6302

Lasting health problems from hookworm infection, a parasitic worm that enters through the skin (usually bare feet) and lives in the intestines. Hookworms cause blood loss leading to anemia, stomach pain, and poor nutrition. The VA rates residuals based on ongoing GI symptoms, anemia, and nutritional problems.

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 6302

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.88a, DC 6302. 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 moderate lasting effects from hookworm including persistent anemia requiring treatment, chronic GI symptoms, and poor nutritional absorption.

What the VA looks for

Persistent moderate anemia despite iron supplementation
Need for IV iron infusions or blood transfusions
Chronic GI symptoms affecting daily activities
Documented malabsorption or nutritional deficiencies
Weight loss related to chronic parasitic damage

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting service in tropical or subtropical regions where hookworm is common — barefoot exposure in Southeast Asia, Pacific islands, Central America, or Africa is the typical in-service event.
⚠Failing to track hemoglobin and iron levels over time — chronic anemia from intestinal damage may persist even after the worms are treated, and lab trends support ongoing disability.
⚠Not filing for chronic anemia as a separate condition — if hookworm caused lasting iron-deficiency anemia, it can be rated under the hematologic system.
⚠Assuming that successful antiparasitic treatment means no residuals — intestinal damage from hookworm can cause lasting GI symptoms and malabsorption.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Infectious Diseases

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Condition Rating Guides

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Hookworm Disease Residuals

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6302

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have moderate lasting effects from hookworm including persistent anemia requiring treatment, chronic GI symptoms, and poor nutritional absorption.

What the VA looks for

Persistent moderate anemia despite iron supplementation
Need for IV iron infusions or blood transfusions
Chronic GI symptoms affecting daily activities
Documented malabsorption or nutritional deficiencies
Weight loss related to chronic parasitic damage

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting service in tropical or subtropical regions where hookworm is common — barefoot exposure in Southeast Asia, Pacific islands, Central America, or Africa is the typical in-service event.

⚠Failing to track hemoglobin and iron levels over time — chronic anemia from intestinal damage may persist even after the worms are treated, and lab trends support ongoing disability.

⚠Not filing for chronic anemia as a separate condition — if hookworm caused lasting iron-deficiency anemia, it can be rated under the hematologic system.

⚠Assuming that successful antiparasitic treatment means no residuals — intestinal damage from hookworm can cause lasting GI symptoms and malabsorption.