Hypercoagulable State (Thrombophilia)

DC 7199-7121Hematologic/Lymphatic38 CFR 4.117, DC 7199-7121

A chronic condition where your blood has an increased tendency to form clots, which can be caused by genetic factors (protein C or S deficiency, prothrombin gene mutation) or acquired conditions. Because there is no specific diagnostic code, the VA rates hypercoagulable states by analogy to DC 7121 (post-phlebitic syndrome). The rating depends on whether you have had clotting events and their residual effects.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type, severity, and frequency of your symptoms. The examiner will evaluate your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7199-7121

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.117, DC 7199-7121. 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 massive swelling with constant pain at rest, or life-threatening clotting complications such as severe pulmonary hypertension or recurrent catastrophic thrombosis.

What the VA looks for

Massive board-like edema
Constant pain at rest
Severe pulmonary hypertension from recurrent PE
Right heart failure
Unable to perform daily activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding that a hypercoagulable state can be service-connected if the first clotting event occurred during military service — even genetic conditions can be aggravated by the physical demands and immobility of military life (long flights, deployments).
⚠Failing to file separate claims for each affected extremity and each organ system damaged by clotting events — DVT residuals in each leg, pulmonary embolism residuals, and stroke residuals can all be rated separately.
⚠Not documenting the burden and risks of lifelong anticoagulation therapy — bleeding complications, frequent lab monitoring, activity restrictions, and medication interactions all support the service-connected disability.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions caused by chronic anticoagulation such as GI bleeding, hemorrhagic complications, and the psychological impact of living with a chronic clotting disorder.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Hematologic and Lymphatic Conditions
DBQ Artery and Vein Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Hypercoagulable State (Thrombophilia)

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type, severity, and frequency of your symptoms. The examiner will evaluate your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7199-7121

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have massive swelling with constant pain at rest, or life-threatening clotting complications such as severe pulmonary hypertension or recurrent catastrophic thrombosis.

What the VA looks for

Massive board-like edema
Constant pain at rest
Severe pulmonary hypertension from recurrent PE
Right heart failure
Unable to perform daily activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding that a hypercoagulable state can be service-connected if the first clotting event occurred during military service — even genetic conditions can be aggravated by the physical demands and immobility of military life (long flights, deployments).

⚠Failing to file separate claims for each affected extremity and each organ system damaged by clotting events — DVT residuals in each leg, pulmonary embolism residuals, and stroke residuals can all be rated separately.

⚠Not documenting the burden and risks of lifelong anticoagulation therapy — bleeding complications, frequent lab monitoring, activity restrictions, and medication interactions all support the service-connected disability.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions caused by chronic anticoagulation such as GI bleeding, hemorrhagic complications, and the psychological impact of living with a chronic clotting disorder.