Myelofibrosis

DC 7718Hematologic/Lymphatic38 CFR 4.117, DC 7718

A serious bone marrow disorder where scar tissue (fibrosis) replaces the normal bone marrow, leading to anemia, enlarged spleen, fatigue, and bone pain. The VA rates myelofibrosis based on the severity of symptoms and the treatment you need.

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 7718

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.117, DC 7718. 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 advanced myelofibrosis requiring a stem cell transplant, or your condition has transformed to acute leukemia, or you are transfusion-dependent with severe complications.

What the VA looks for

Stem cell transplant performed or planned
Transformation to acute myeloid leukemia
Transfusion-dependent anemia
Severe portal hypertension from massive splenomegaly
Cachexia and severe constitutional symptoms

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting constitutional symptoms (night sweats, weight loss, bone pain, severe fatigue) — these symptoms are a key part of the rating criteria but are often underreported.
⚠Failing to have spleen size measured on imaging studies — the degree of splenomegaly directly affects your rating.
⚠Not connecting myelofibrosis to benzene, ionizing radiation, or other chemical exposures during military service.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions from splenomegaly (portal hypertension, early satiety) or from treatment side effects (immune suppression, anemia).

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Hematologic and Lymphatic Conditions

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7718

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have advanced myelofibrosis requiring a stem cell transplant, or your condition has transformed to acute leukemia, or you are transfusion-dependent with severe complications.

What the VA looks for

Stem cell transplant performed or planned
Transformation to acute myeloid leukemia
Transfusion-dependent anemia
Severe portal hypertension from massive splenomegaly
Cachexia and severe constitutional symptoms

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting constitutional symptoms (night sweats, weight loss, bone pain, severe fatigue) — these symptoms are a key part of the rating criteria but are often underreported.

⚠Failing to have spleen size measured on imaging studies — the degree of splenomegaly directly affects your rating.

⚠Not connecting myelofibrosis to benzene, ionizing radiation, or other chemical exposures during military service.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions from splenomegaly (portal hypertension, early satiety) or from treatment side effects (immune suppression, anemia).