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Evidence checklist

Multiple Sclerosis

DC 801838 CFR § 4.124aNeurological

Evidence strength

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

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 5 collected
MRI brain and spinal cord showing demyelinating plaquesCritical

MRI documenting T2/FLAIR hyperintense lesions in white matter, periventricular, juxtacortical, infratentorial, or spinal cord locations consistent with MS (McDonald criteria).

Private provider · independent opinion
Lumbar puncture CSF analysis (oligoclonal bands, IgG index)

CSF results showing oligoclonal bands or elevated IgG index, which support the MS diagnosis under McDonald criteria.

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

Medical opinion connecting your MS to military service. MS is a presumptive condition for veterans with active service, and nexus may also be established through documented onset during service.

Private provider · independent opinion
Neurologist evaluation documenting EDSS and functional statusCritical

A neurologist's evaluation including the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score or equivalent functional assessment documenting the current level of neurological impairment.

Private provider · independent opinion
Evoked potential studies (VEP, SSEP, BAEP)

Electrophysiological testing showing slowed conduction in visual, somatosensory, or brainstem pathways consistent with demyelination.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 1 collected
Treatment records (disease-modifying therapy, rehabilitation)

Records of disease-modifying treatments (interferons, natalizumab, ocrelizumab), relapse history, hospitalizations, and rehabilitation.

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 Multiple SclerosisCritical

VA standardized form for MS capturing neurological deficits, EDSS, incapacitation episodes, and functional limitations.

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 forC&P exam prepWhat the examiner will askBuddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

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