Skip to main content

Evidence checklist

Lymphedema

DC 7199-712138 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 2 collected
Limb circumference measurementsCritical

Documented serial limb circumference measurements comparing affected and unaffected limbs, showing the degree of swelling.

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

A medical opinion connecting your lymphedema to a service-connected surgery, injury, infection, or radiation treatment that damaged the lymphatic system.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 3 collected
Documentation of surgery or injury causing lymph damageCritical

Surgical records, injury reports, or treatment records documenting the event that caused lymphatic system damage during or related to service.

VA or private records · written request
Compression therapy records

Records documenting compression garment prescriptions, manual lymphatic drainage sessions, and other decongestive therapy.

VA or private records · written request
Dermatology records for skin complications

Records of cellulitis episodes, skin infections, or other dermatological complications resulting from chronic lymphedema.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Photographs of swelling

Dated photographs documenting the extent of lymphedema swelling at various times, including during flare-ups.

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 →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Artery and Vein ConditionsCritical

Standardized form capturing limb measurements, skin changes, and functional impact of lymphedema.

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
Condition guideRating criteria and what VA looks forBuddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

What you mark here is saved in this browser, on this device only — not to an account. Changing the target rating shows different items, but never loses what you have already marked.