Polycythemia Vera

DC 7704Hematologic/Lymphatic38 CFR 4.117, DC 7704

A slow-growing blood cancer where your bone marrow makes too many red blood cells, making your blood thicker than normal. This increases the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack. The VA rates polycythemia vera based on treatment needs and complications.

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 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

Your polycythemia vera has transformed to myelofibrosis or acute leukemia, or you are undergoing treatment that is equivalent to active cancer treatment.

What the VA looks for

Bone marrow biopsy showing transformation
Diagnosis of post-PV myelofibrosis or acute leukemia
Active antineoplastic treatment
Severe constitutional symptoms
Transfusion-dependent anemia

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the frequency of phlebotomy treatments — keep a log of every visit because the number of treatments per year directly affects your rating level.
⚠Failing to report complications like blood clots, itching after bathing (aquagenic pruritus), and night sweats, which support a higher rating.
⚠Not connecting polycythemia vera to ionizing radiation or chemical exposures during military service.
⚠Not filing separately for thrombotic complications like stroke or deep vein thrombosis, which may warrant additional ratings under other diagnostic codes.

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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Polycythemia Vera

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7704

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your polycythemia vera has transformed to myelofibrosis or acute leukemia, or you are undergoing treatment that is equivalent to active cancer treatment.

What the VA looks for

Bone marrow biopsy showing transformation
Diagnosis of post-PV myelofibrosis or acute leukemia
Active antineoplastic treatment
Severe constitutional symptoms
Transfusion-dependent anemia

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the frequency of phlebotomy treatments — keep a log of every visit because the number of treatments per year directly affects your rating level.

⚠Failing to report complications like blood clots, itching after bathing (aquagenic pruritus), and night sweats, which support a higher rating.

⚠Not connecting polycythemia vera to ionizing radiation or chemical exposures during military service.

⚠Not filing separately for thrombotic complications like stroke or deep vein thrombosis, which may warrant additional ratings under other diagnostic codes.