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Evidence checklist

Endocarditis

DC 700138 CFR § 4.104Cardiovascular

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 3 collected
Echocardiogram showing valve damage and ejection fractionCritical

Echocardiography documenting valvular damage, vegetations, regurgitation severity, and left ventricular ejection fraction resulting from endocarditis.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking endocarditis to service ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion connecting your endocarditis or its cardiac residuals to an in-service infection, dental procedure, IV drug use during service, or other service-related cause.

Private provider · independent opinion
Exercise stress test with METs estimationCritical

Stress test results documenting your exercise capacity in METs (metabolic equivalents). METs level is a primary driver of VA heart condition ratings.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 2 collected
Hospitalization records for acute infection

Records from hospitalization for the initial endocarditis episode, including blood cultures, IV antibiotic treatment, and duration of stay.

VA or private records · written request
Ongoing cardiology records

Follow-up records from your cardiologist documenting residual valve damage, heart failure symptoms, and ongoing monitoring.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Heart ConditionsCritical

Standardized form capturing ejection fraction, METs capacity, and functional limitations from endocarditis residuals.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180

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