Waldenstrom's Macroglobulinemia

DC 7709Hematologic/Lymphatic38 CFR 4.117, DC 7709

A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma where abnormal white blood cells produce too much of a protein called IgM, making the blood thick (hyperviscosity). This can cause fatigue, bleeding, vision problems, and nerve damage. The VA rates Waldenstrom's at 100% during active treatment, then rates residuals.

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 7709

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.117, DC 7709. 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 active Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia requiring treatment (chemotherapy, immunotherapy, plasmapheresis). The 100% rating continues for six months after treatment ends.

What the VA looks for

Bone marrow biopsy confirming lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma
Elevated IgM levels on serum protein electrophoresis
Treatment records (rituximab, chemotherapy, plasmapheresis)
Hyperviscosity symptoms documented
Oncology treatment plan

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting peripheral neuropathy caused by the IgM protein — this is very common with Waldenstrom's and can be rated separately as a neurological condition.
⚠Failing to report hyperviscosity symptoms (vision changes, headaches, bleeding) which may support additional ratings during watch-and-wait periods.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions such as peripheral neuropathy, anemia, and kidney problems, which can persist even when the cancer is controlled.
⚠Not connecting the condition to Agent Orange exposure or other toxic exposures during military service.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Hematologic and Lymphatic Conditions

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Waldenstrom's Macroglobulinemia

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7709

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have active Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia requiring treatment (chemotherapy, immunotherapy, plasmapheresis). The 100% rating continues for six months after treatment ends.

What the VA looks for

Bone marrow biopsy confirming lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma
Elevated IgM levels on serum protein electrophoresis
Treatment records (rituximab, chemotherapy, plasmapheresis)
Hyperviscosity symptoms documented
Oncology treatment plan

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting peripheral neuropathy caused by the IgM protein — this is very common with Waldenstrom's and can be rated separately as a neurological condition.

⚠Failing to report hyperviscosity symptoms (vision changes, headaches, bleeding) which may support additional ratings during watch-and-wait periods.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions such as peripheral neuropathy, anemia, and kidney problems, which can persist even when the cancer is controlled.

⚠Not connecting the condition to Agent Orange exposure or other toxic exposures during military service.