Subacute Thyroiditis

DC 7902Endocrine38 CFR 4.119, DC 7902

Inflammation of the thyroid gland that causes pain, swelling in the neck, and temporary changes in thyroid hormone levels. It can be triggered by viral infections, physical stress, or immune system changes during or after military service. The VA rates this based on how your thyroid function is affected, what treatment you need, and whether it recurs.

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 7902

Rating range

0% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.119, DC 7902. 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 subacute thyroiditis has caused severe residual thyroid dysfunction with cardiovascular involvement, recurrent thyroiditis episodes, or significant complications.

What the VA looks for

Cardiovascular involvement (tachycardia or bradycardia)
Recurrent thyroiditis episodes documented
Severe fatigue and mental disturbance
Multiple medication regimen for thyroid management
Significant functional and occupational impairment
Endocrinology specialist management records

Common Pitfalls

⚠Assuming the condition is "resolved" if you feel better temporarily — subacute thyroiditis can leave permanent thyroid damage or recur. Get follow-up thyroid function tests at 6 and 12 months.
⚠Not documenting the initial episode during or shortly after service — if your thyroiditis started during service or within a year of discharge, it is easier to service-connect.
⚠Not monitoring for progression to hypothyroidism — many cases of subacute thyroiditis eventually result in permanent hypothyroidism. Keep getting thyroid labs checked even after the acute phase resolves.
⚠Not connecting recurrences to the original service-connected episode — each flare-up of thyroiditis should be documented as related to the original condition.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Thyroid and Parathyroid Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Subacute Thyroiditis

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7902

Rating range

0% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your subacute thyroiditis has caused severe residual thyroid dysfunction with cardiovascular involvement, recurrent thyroiditis episodes, or significant complications.

What the VA looks for

Cardiovascular involvement (tachycardia or bradycardia)
Recurrent thyroiditis episodes documented
Severe fatigue and mental disturbance
Multiple medication regimen for thyroid management
Significant functional and occupational impairment
Endocrinology specialist management records

Common Pitfalls

⚠Assuming the condition is "resolved" if you feel better temporarily — subacute thyroiditis can leave permanent thyroid damage or recur. Get follow-up thyroid function tests at 6 and 12 months.

⚠Not documenting the initial episode during or shortly after service — if your thyroiditis started during service or within a year of discharge, it is easier to service-connect.

⚠Not monitoring for progression to hypothyroidism — many cases of subacute thyroiditis eventually result in permanent hypothyroidism. Keep getting thyroid labs checked even after the acute phase resolves.

⚠Not connecting recurrences to the original service-connected episode — each flare-up of thyroiditis should be documented as related to the original condition.