Subclavian Steal Syndrome

DC 7114Cardiovascular38 CFR 4.104, DC 7114

A condition where a blockage in the subclavian artery (near the collarbone) causes blood to flow backward from the brain to supply the arm, stealing blood flow from the brain. This can cause dizziness, fainting, arm pain, and neurological symptoms, especially when using the affected arm. The VA rates this under the arterial disease criteria.

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 7114

Rating range

20% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.104, DC 7114. 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 rest pain in the affected arm, stroke or severe neurological deficits from vertebrobasilar insufficiency, or critical ischemia requiring emergent intervention.

What the VA looks for

Rest pain in affected arm
Stroke or vertebrobasilar insufficiency documented
Critical limb ischemia
Emergent vascular intervention records
Severe bilateral blood pressure asymmetry

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting blood pressure measurements in both arms — a difference of 15 mmHg or more is a key diagnostic finding that supports the diagnosis and severity.
⚠Not getting vascular imaging (duplex ultrasound, CT angiography, or MR angiography) to document the exact location and severity of the subclavian stenosis.
⚠Not reporting all symptoms during the C&P exam — dizziness, visual changes, arm numbness, and difficulty with overhead activities should all be described to the examiner.
⚠Not separately claiming neurological deficits from vertebrobasilar insufficiency — cognitive problems, balance issues, and visual changes from reduced brain blood flow may warrant additional ratings.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Artery and Vein Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Subclavian Steal Syndrome

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7114

Rating range

20% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have rest pain in the affected arm, stroke or severe neurological deficits from vertebrobasilar insufficiency, or critical ischemia requiring emergent intervention.

What the VA looks for

Rest pain in affected arm
Stroke or vertebrobasilar insufficiency documented
Critical limb ischemia
Emergent vascular intervention records
Severe bilateral blood pressure asymmetry

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting blood pressure measurements in both arms — a difference of 15 mmHg or more is a key diagnostic finding that supports the diagnosis and severity.

⚠Not getting vascular imaging (duplex ultrasound, CT angiography, or MR angiography) to document the exact location and severity of the subclavian stenosis.

⚠Not reporting all symptoms during the C&P exam — dizziness, visual changes, arm numbness, and difficulty with overhead activities should all be described to the examiner.

⚠Not separately claiming neurological deficits from vertebrobasilar insufficiency — cognitive problems, balance issues, and visual changes from reduced brain blood flow may warrant additional ratings.