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Evidence checklist

Trigeminal Neuralgia

DC 840538 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
Neurologist evaluation documenting trigeminal neuralgia diagnosisCritical

A neurologist's evaluation confirming the diagnosis, describing the pain distribution (V1/V2/V3 branches), trigger factors, attack frequency, and severity.

Private provider · independent opinion
MRI brain with trigeminal protocol (neurovascular contact or MS lesion)Critical

MRI with FIESTA/CISS sequences assessing for vascular compression of the trigeminal nerve root or demyelinating plaques. Supports diagnosis and nexus.

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

Medical opinion connecting your trigeminal neuralgia to in-service facial trauma, TBI, dental injury, or other service event.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 1 collected
Treatment records (medications, nerve block, surgery)

Records of carbamazepine/oxcarbazepine trials, nerve blocks, gamma knife, or microvascular decompression surgery, documenting response and residual symptoms.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 3 collected
Pain diary documenting attack frequency, duration, and severityCritical

A personal log recording each episode of lancinating facial pain. The VA rates trigeminal neuralgia under DC 8405 based on the severity and frequency of attacks.

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 →
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 Cranial Nerve ConditionsCritical

VA standardized form capturing cranial nerve examination findings and functional impact for rating under the cranial nerve diagnostic codes.

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

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