Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation

DC 7117Cardiovascular38 CFR 4.104, DC 7117

An abnormal connection between arteries and veins in the lungs that allows blood to bypass the normal oxygen exchange process. This can cause low blood oxygen levels, shortness of breath, and an increased risk of stroke. The VA rates this condition based on residual symptoms and functional limitations.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 7117

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.104, DC 7117. 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 severe pulmonary AVM causing chronic respiratory failure, resting hypoxemia requiring continuous supplemental oxygen, or your workload capacity is 3 METs or less.

What the VA looks for

Resting hypoxemia documented
Continuous supplemental oxygen requirement
Workload capacity of 3 METs or less
Severe exercise limitation
History of paradoxical embolism or stroke

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting pulse oximetry at rest and during exertion — low oxygen saturation, especially with activity, is critical evidence for a higher rating.
⚠Not documenting the full extent of complications including stroke, brain abscess, or migraine headaches that result from the right-to-left shunt — these may warrant separate ratings.
⚠Not requesting chest CT angiography to show the size and number of AVMs — imaging evidence is essential for establishing the severity of the condition.
⚠Not connecting pulmonary AVM to hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) if diagnosed — the underlying genetic condition and its other manifestations may support additional claims.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Heart Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7117

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have severe pulmonary AVM causing chronic respiratory failure, resting hypoxemia requiring continuous supplemental oxygen, or your workload capacity is 3 METs or less.

What the VA looks for

Resting hypoxemia documented
Continuous supplemental oxygen requirement
Workload capacity of 3 METs or less
Severe exercise limitation
History of paradoxical embolism or stroke

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting pulse oximetry at rest and during exertion — low oxygen saturation, especially with activity, is critical evidence for a higher rating.

⚠Not documenting the full extent of complications including stroke, brain abscess, or migraine headaches that result from the right-to-left shunt — these may warrant separate ratings.

⚠Not requesting chest CT angiography to show the size and number of AVMs — imaging evidence is essential for establishing the severity of the condition.

⚠Not connecting pulmonary AVM to hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) if diagnosed — the underlying genetic condition and its other manifestations may support additional claims.