Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

DC 7715Hematologic/Lymphatic38 CFR 4.117, DC 7715

A group of cancers that start in the lymphatic system (lymph nodes, spleen, and other immune tissues). There are many types that range from slow-growing to aggressive. The VA rates non-Hodgkin's lymphoma at 100% during active disease or treatment. Six months after treatment ends, the VA rates residuals.

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 7715

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.117, DC 7715. 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 non-Hodgkin's lymphoma or are undergoing treatment (chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, stem cell transplant). The 100% rating continues for six months after treatment ends.

What the VA looks for

Pathology confirming non-Hodgkin lymphoma (type specified)
Staging workup (PET/CT, bone marrow biopsy)
Treatment records (R-CHOP, radiation, transplant)
Oncology treatment plan and progress notes
Lymph node biopsy report

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not knowing that non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a presumptive condition for Agent Orange exposure — if you served in Vietnam, Thailand, or other locations with herbicide use, you may not need to prove a direct connection.
⚠Not documenting all residual effects before the mandatory six-month post-treatment VA exam — chemotherapy neuropathy, immune deficiency, cardiac damage, and chronic fatigue should all be claimed.
⚠Failing to file for secondary conditions caused by treatment — radiation can damage the heart, thyroid, and lungs, and chemotherapy can cause neuropathy and cognitive problems.
⚠Not filing promptly upon diagnosis — every day you wait is a day of 100% compensation you lose.

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…

Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7715

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

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

What the VA looks for

Pathology confirming non-Hodgkin lymphoma (type specified)
Staging workup (PET/CT, bone marrow biopsy)
Treatment records (R-CHOP, radiation, transplant)
Oncology treatment plan and progress notes
Lymph node biopsy report

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not knowing that non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a presumptive condition for Agent Orange exposure — if you served in Vietnam, Thailand, or other locations with herbicide use, you may not need to prove a direct connection.

⚠Not documenting all residual effects before the mandatory six-month post-treatment VA exam — chemotherapy neuropathy, immune deficiency, cardiac damage, and chronic fatigue should all be claimed.

⚠Failing to file for secondary conditions caused by treatment — radiation can damage the heart, thyroid, and lungs, and chemotherapy can cause neuropathy and cognitive problems.

⚠Not filing promptly upon diagnosis — every day you wait is a day of 100% compensation you lose.