Splenectomy Residuals

DC 7706Hematologic/Lymphatic38 CFR 4.117, DC 7706

The lasting effects of having your spleen surgically removed. Without a spleen, you are more vulnerable to serious infections. The VA assigns a minimum 20% rating for splenectomy, with higher ratings if you have complications.

How the VA rates this condition

This condition has a fixed rating under VA regulations. Unlike most conditions, the rating does not vary based on severity. If the VA grants service connection, the rating percentage is set by regulation.

Diagnostic code

DC 7706

Rating range

20% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.117, DC 7706. 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 had your spleen removed and experience recurrent infections or complications from the loss of your spleen.

What the VA looks for

Splenectomy confirmed
Recurrent infections documented (two or more per year)
Hospitalizations for post-splenectomy infections
Elevated platelet count (thrombocytosis)
Prophylactic antibiotics required

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not knowing that splenectomy automatically qualifies for at least a 20% rating — you do not need to prove symptoms, just that your spleen was removed.
⚠Not documenting every infection after splenectomy, even minor ones — the frequency of infections supports a higher rating and shows the ongoing impact.
⚠Failing to file for the underlying condition that caused the splenectomy (trauma, ITP, lymphoma) as a separate service-connected condition.
⚠Not keeping up with required post-splenectomy vaccinations and antibiotic prophylaxis — these medical records also serve as evidence for your claim.

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…

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7706

Rating range

20% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have had your spleen removed and experience recurrent infections or complications from the loss of your spleen.

What the VA looks for

Splenectomy confirmed
Recurrent infections documented (two or more per year)
Hospitalizations for post-splenectomy infections
Elevated platelet count (thrombocytosis)
Prophylactic antibiotics required

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not knowing that splenectomy automatically qualifies for at least a 20% rating — you do not need to prove symptoms, just that your spleen was removed.

⚠Not documenting every infection after splenectomy, even minor ones — the frequency of infections supports a higher rating and shows the ongoing impact.

⚠Failing to file for the underlying condition that caused the splenectomy (trauma, ITP, lymphoma) as a separate service-connected condition.

⚠Not keeping up with required post-splenectomy vaccinations and antibiotic prophylaxis — these medical records also serve as evidence for your claim.