Evidence checklist

HIV-Related Illness

DC 635138 CFR § 4.88bInfectious Diseases

Evidence strength

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

Target

Saved locally

Specialist opinion

Highest value

Infectious disease specialist evaluation and treatment recordsCritical

Records from an infectious disease doctor showing your HIV diagnosis, viral load, CD4/T-cell counts over time, antiretroviral therapy, and response to treatment.

Private provider · independent opinion

Nexus opinion linking HIV to serviceCritical

A medical opinion stating it is "at least as likely as not" that you contracted HIV during military service, such as through occupational exposure, needlestick, contaminated blood products, or sexual assault.

Private provider · independent opinion

Treatment records

Records of opportunistic infections or AIDS-defining illnesses

Documentation of any infections or conditions that occurred because HIV weakened your immune system, such as pneumocystis pneumonia, candidiasis, or Kaposi sarcoma.

VA or private records · written request

Medication history and side effects documentation

Records showing your antiretroviral medications, dosage changes, and side effects such as nausea, fatigue, lipodystrophy, or kidney problems.

VA or private records · written request

Diagnostic tests and lab results

Lab results showing viral load and CD4 T-cell countsCritical

Blood test results tracking your viral load and CD4 T-cell counts over time. These numbers are key to how the VA rates HIV.

Imaging or lab facility · records request

Lay statements

Documentation of functional limitations and missed work

Records showing how HIV and its treatment affect your ability to work and perform daily activities, including days missed due to illness or medical appointments.

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

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 →

Benefits questionnaire

DBQ — Infectious Diseases

Disability Benefits Questionnaire completed by your doctor documenting your current symptoms, lab values, treatment, and functional impact.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →

Service records

Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

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

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180

Condition guideRating criteria and what VA looks for C&P exam prepWhat the examiner will ask Buddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

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