Postphlebitic Syndrome

DC 7121Cardiovascular38 CFR 4.104, DC 7121

A long-term complication of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) causing chronic leg pain, swelling, skin changes, and potentially ulcers. The VA rates postphlebitic syndrome under the post-phlebitic syndrome criteria based on the severity of edema, skin changes, and ulceration.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 7121

Rating range

10% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.104, DC 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 persistent swelling or subcutaneous hardening, stasis pigmentation or eczema, and persistent ulceration that does not heal.

What the VA looks for

Persistent edema or subcutaneous induration
Stasis pigmentation or eczema documented
Persistent ulceration that does not heal
Ongoing wound care records
Vascular specialist treatment records

Common Pitfalls

⚠Postphlebitic syndrome is a recognized progression of deep vein thrombosis — if your DVT is service-connected, this condition should be too. File for secondary service connection if needed.
⚠Not documenting skin changes and pigmentation with photographs — dated photos showing stasis pigmentation, eczema, and skin discoloration are key evidence for ratings above 10%.
⚠Not tracking ulceration episodes with medical records — intermittent ulceration supports the 40% rating and persistent ulceration supports 60%.
⚠Not documenting compression therapy as evidence of chronic treatment need — prescriptions for compression stockings and ongoing vascular follow-up demonstrate the chronic nature of the condition.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Artery and Vein Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Postphlebitic Syndrome or rated under the same body system.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

DC 7101·Cardiovascular

Coronary Artery Disease

DC 7005·Cardiovascular

Cardiac Arrhythmia

DC 7010·Cardiovascular

Heart Valve Disease

DC 7000·Cardiovascular

Peripheral Vascular Disease

DC 7114·Cardiovascular

Cardiomyopathy

DC 7020·Cardiovascular

Congestive Heart Failure

DC 7019·Cardiovascular

Varicose Veins

DC 7120·Cardiovascular

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

Postphlebitic Syndrome

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7121

Rating range

10% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have persistent swelling or subcutaneous hardening, stasis pigmentation or eczema, and persistent ulceration that does not heal.

What the VA looks for

Persistent edema or subcutaneous induration
Stasis pigmentation or eczema documented
Persistent ulceration that does not heal
Ongoing wound care records
Vascular specialist treatment records

Common Pitfalls

⚠Postphlebitic syndrome is a recognized progression of deep vein thrombosis — if your DVT is service-connected, this condition should be too. File for secondary service connection if needed.

⚠Not documenting skin changes and pigmentation with photographs — dated photos showing stasis pigmentation, eczema, and skin discoloration are key evidence for ratings above 10%.

⚠Not tracking ulceration episodes with medical records — intermittent ulceration supports the 40% rating and persistent ulceration supports 60%.

⚠Not documenting compression therapy as evidence of chronic treatment need — prescriptions for compression stockings and ongoing vascular follow-up demonstrate the chronic nature of the condition.