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Evidence checklist

Pericarditis

DC 700238 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 4 collected
Echocardiogram documenting pericardial effusion or constrictionCritical

Echocardiography identifying pericardial effusion size, tamponade physiology, or constrictive pericarditis findings. Also captures ejection fraction to assess myocardial involvement.

Private provider · independent opinion
ECG showing diffuse ST elevation or PR depression (acute) or low voltage (constrictive)Critical

Electrocardiogram documenting the characteristic ECG changes of pericarditis: diffuse saddle-shaped ST elevation and PR depression in acute phase, or low voltage with electrical alternans in effusion.

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

A medical opinion connecting pericarditis to viral illness during service, service-connected rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, post-cardiac surgery pericarditis, or other service-related cause.

Private provider · independent opinion
Exercise stress test with METs estimationCritical

Stress test documenting functional exercise capacity in METs, particularly important for constrictive pericarditis where METs drive the rating level.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 2 collected
Inflammatory labs (CRP, ESR, troponin)

Laboratory markers documenting active inflammation (elevated CRP, ESR) and any myocardial involvement (troponin elevation) supporting pericarditis diagnosis.

VA or private records · written request
Hospitalization records for acute pericarditis

Inpatient records from acute pericarditis episodes including treatment received (NSAIDs, colchicine, steroids) and any pericardiocentesis.

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 pericardial findings, ejection fraction, METs, and functional limitations from pericarditis.

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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