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Evidence checklist

Narcolepsy

DC 810838 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 3 collected
Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) with SOREMPsCritical

An MSLT showing mean sleep onset latency of 8 minutes or less and at least 2 sleep-onset REM periods (SOREMPs). This is the gold standard diagnostic test required to confirm narcolepsy.

Private provider · independent opinion
Overnight polysomnography preceding the MSLTCritical

A full-night polysomnography confirming adequate sleep opportunity and ruling out other sleep disorders, performed the night before the MSLT.

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

Medical opinion connecting narcolepsy to an in-service TBI, autoimmune trigger, or other service event. Head trauma is the most common service-related cause.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 1 collected
Treatment records (modafinil, sodium oxybate, stimulants)

Prescription records for wake-promoting agents and records of treatment response or inadequate control of daytime sleepiness.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 3 collected
Documentation of cataplexy episodes (if Type 1)

Records or personal diary documenting sudden muscle weakness triggered by strong emotions. Cataplexy confirms narcolepsy Type 1 and may support a higher rating.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Documentation of employment and driving impact

Records showing inability to safely drive, missed work, job changes, or restrictions on activities requiring sustained alertness.

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 NarcolepsyCritical

VA standardized form for narcolepsy capturing sleep study results, cataplexy, and functional impact for rating under DC 8108.

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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