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Evidence checklist

Sickle Cell Disease

DC 771438 CFR § 4.117Hematologic/Lymphatic

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
Nexus opinion linking sickle cell disease aggravation to serviceCritical

Sickle cell disease is genetic, but military service (extreme heat, dehydration, high altitude, intense physical activity) may have worsened it beyond natural progression.

Private provider · independent opinion
Documentation of organ damage (avascular necrosis, kidney, spleen)

Records of any organ damage from sickle cell disease. Joint destruction (avascular necrosis), kidney problems, and splenic infarcts may warrant separate ratings.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 3 collected
Hemoglobin electrophoresis confirming sickle cell typeCritical

A blood test showing the specific type of sickle cell disease (SS, SC, S-beta thalassemia). This confirms the diagnosis.

VA or private records · written request
Documentation of pain crisis frequency and severityCritical

Records of every sickle cell pain crisis, including ER visits and hospitalizations. The frequency of crises drives the VA rating.

VA or private records · written request
Treatment records (hydroxyurea, transfusions, pain management)Critical

Records of all treatments including hydroxyurea, blood transfusions, and pain medications used during crises.

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 Hematologic and Lymphatic ConditionsCritical

A standardized VA form capturing crisis frequency, hemoglobin levels, treatment, and organ complications.

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

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.