Neutropenia, Chronic

DC 7704Hematologic/Lymphatic38 CFR 4.117, DC 7704

A condition where you have chronically low levels of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that fights bacterial infections. This makes you highly susceptible to infections that can become life-threatening. The VA rates chronic neutropenia based on the severity of the neutrophil count and the frequency of infections.

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 7704

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.117, DC 7704. 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 very severe neutropenia with life-threatening sepsis, multi-organ dysfunction from infections, or your condition requires a stem cell transplant.

What the VA looks for

Recurrent life-threatening sepsis episodes
ICU admissions for neutropenic fever
Multi-organ dysfunction from infections
Stem cell transplant performed or planned
Unable to maintain gainful employment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not keeping a detailed log of every infection, antibiotic course, and hospitalization — the frequency and severity of infections is the key factor in determining your rating.
⚠Failing to connect chronic neutropenia to medication toxicity (chemotherapy, antivirals, antibiotics), chemical exposures (benzene, pesticides), or radiation exposure during military service.
⚠Not documenting the lifestyle restrictions imposed by severe neutropenia — avoiding crowds, public transportation, restaurants, and sick contacts significantly impacts quality of life.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions from recurrent infections such as chronic lung disease, chronic sinusitis, or depression and anxiety from living with immune deficiency.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Hematologic and Lymphatic Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Neutropenia, Chronic

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 7704

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have very severe neutropenia with life-threatening sepsis, multi-organ dysfunction from infections, or your condition requires a stem cell transplant.

What the VA looks for

Recurrent life-threatening sepsis episodes
ICU admissions for neutropenic fever
Multi-organ dysfunction from infections
Stem cell transplant performed or planned
Unable to maintain gainful employment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not keeping a detailed log of every infection, antibiotic course, and hospitalization — the frequency and severity of infections is the key factor in determining your rating.

⚠Failing to connect chronic neutropenia to medication toxicity (chemotherapy, antivirals, antibiotics), chemical exposures (benzene, pesticides), or radiation exposure during military service.

⚠Not documenting the lifestyle restrictions imposed by severe neutropenia — avoiding crowds, public transportation, restaurants, and sick contacts significantly impacts quality of life.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions from recurrent infections such as chronic lung disease, chronic sinusitis, or depression and anxiety from living with immune deficiency.