Splenomegaly

DC 7707Hematologic/Lymphatic38 CFR 4.117, DC 7707

An abnormally enlarged spleen, which can cause pain in the upper left abdomen, feeling full quickly when eating, and low blood counts. The VA rates splenomegaly based on how much it affects your blood counts and daily life.

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 7707

Rating range

0% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.117, DC 7707. 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 splenomegaly causes severe cytopenias with recurrent infections or bleeding, or massive splenomegaly causing significant abdominal symptoms.

What the VA looks for

Massive splenomegaly on imaging
Severe cytopenias requiring transfusions
Recurrent infections from low white blood cells
Bleeding episodes from low platelets
Significant limitation of physical activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not having imaging studies that document the actual size of the spleen — ultrasound or CT measurements are needed to prove the severity.
⚠Not documenting the underlying cause of splenomegaly — it may be secondary to a service-connected condition like liver disease, lymphoma, or autoimmune disorders.
⚠Failing to report the effects of low blood counts caused by the enlarged spleen (frequent infections, easy bruising, fatigue) which support a higher rating.
⚠Not filing for the underlying condition causing the splenomegaly as a separate claim — the root cause may warrant its own rating.

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 7707

Rating range

0% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your splenomegaly causes severe cytopenias with recurrent infections or bleeding, or massive splenomegaly causing significant abdominal symptoms.

What the VA looks for

Massive splenomegaly on imaging
Severe cytopenias requiring transfusions
Recurrent infections from low white blood cells
Bleeding episodes from low platelets
Significant limitation of physical activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not having imaging studies that document the actual size of the spleen — ultrasound or CT measurements are needed to prove the severity.

⚠Not documenting the underlying cause of splenomegaly — it may be secondary to a service-connected condition like liver disease, lymphoma, or autoimmune disorders.

⚠Failing to report the effects of low blood counts caused by the enlarged spleen (frequent infections, easy bruising, fatigue) which support a higher rating.

⚠Not filing for the underlying condition causing the splenomegaly as a separate claim — the root cause may warrant its own rating.