38 CFR Part 4 — 38 CFR § 4.117
Immune Thrombocytopenia
dc-7705-immune-thrombocytopenia
Hematologic / lymphatic
Diagnostic code
7705
Why your DC matters: DC 7705 is the exact code the VA uses to rate this condition. It determines which symptoms unlock which percentage, what evidence the rater looks for, and which secondaries are most likely to be approved.
Last verified against 38 CFR (eCFR Part 4):
Rating criteria (38 CFR Part 4)
Diagnostic code 7705 — Immune Thrombocytopenia — is listed under 38 CFR § 4.117 in 38 CFR Part 4. The paragraphs below summarize how this code is used; the official schedule text controls exact percentages, formulas, and notes.
Schedule summary (educational, not a substitute for the regulation): Educational index row from the rating schedule naming convention; confirm exact diagnostic code, effective date, and criteria in the current eCFR Part 4.
Exact rating criteria: Open Part 4 in the eCFR (link under “Official source” below). Locate your diagnostic code number (7705) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / ⌘F) for “7705”. Copy the verbatim rating table, including any parenthetical notes, exceptions, and cross-references, for the version of Part 4 that applies to your effective date.
Effective dates & which schedule version applies
Which diagnostic code, percentage, and effective date apply depends on the facts of your claim and the version of the rating schedule in force for the period being decided. Generally, VA applies the schedule in effect at the specified time under 38 U.S.C. § 5110 and implementing rules, subject to exceptions (e.g., protected ratings, liberalizing law changes—see regulation and VA manual policy as applicable).
For older claims, the **current** eCFR may not match the text that applied years ago. If your decision references a prior percentage or code, compare against the Part 4 text **as of** your claim’s relevant dates; historical Federal Register / CFR snapshots may be needed for precise comparison.
The “Last verified” date on this page is when we last checked this educational summary against the electronic CFR—not the date of any VA policy or your personal claim decision.
Notes for your claim
Evidence: Show that your diagnosis and severity match the factors the schedule names for DC 7705 (e.g., measurements, frequency, treatment, functional loss), with medical and lay evidence as appropriate.
C&P exams: Results should reflect the schedule’s requirements (correct joints measured, correct formulas). If the exam omits required findings, consider submitting records or requesting clarification.
If you disagree with the DC, percentage, or effective date, review the Part 4 text for your period and consider a supplemental claim or appeal with a VA-accredited representative.
This site does not provide legal advice.
Official source
38 CFR Part 4 (eCFR) — locate diagnostic code 7705 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
DC 7705 immune thrombocytopenia (ITP, formerly idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura) is rated by platelet count + treatment requirement. The schedule is dual-track: platelet count thresholds OR treatment intensity. Veterans with chemotherapy exposure, infection-associated ITP (HCV, H. pylori), or post-vaccination ITP may have SC pathways. The single highest-leverage point: chronic refractory ITP requiring chemotherapy = 100%. Less severe ITP requiring corticosteroids = 30%; requiring immunosuppressives with hospitalization history = 70%. Track both platelet trends AND treatment regimen carefully.
Rating Tiers — What Each Percentage Requires
| Rating | What It Takes | Evidence That Supports It |
|---|---|---|
| 100% | Requiring chemotherapy for chronic refractory thrombocytopenia, OR platelet count 30,000 or below. | Hematology records documenting chronic refractory ITP + chemotherapy regimen (rituximab, cyclophosphamide); OR persistent platelet count ≤ 30,000. |
| 70% | Requiring immunosuppressive therapy; OR platelet count > 30,000 but ≤ 50,000 with history of hospitalization. | Immunosuppressive Rx (rituximab, MMF, azathioprine) records; OR platelet count 30-50k + hospital admission record for ITP. |
| 30% | Platelet count > 30,000 but ≤ 50,000 requiring oral corticosteroid therapy. | Platelet count 30-50k + ongoing prednisone/equivalent Rx. |
| 10% | Platelet count > 30,000 but ≤ 50,000, not requiring treatment. | Stable platelet count 30-50k with chart documentation of monitoring without active treatment. |
| 0% | Platelet count above 50,000 and asymptomatic. | Lab confirmation of platelet count > 50k with no bleeding symptoms or treatment requirement. |
What Qualifies Under DC 7705?
Confirmed immune thrombocytopenia (ITP)
Exclusion diagnosis after ruling out other causes of thrombocytopenia. Persistent platelet count < 100,000 with bleeding tendency or other autoimmune destruction evidence.
Dual-path tier system
DC 7705 schedule:
- • 0% — Platelets > 50,000, asymptomatic
- • 10% — Platelets 30-50k, no treatment
- • 30% — Platelets 30-50k, requiring oral corticosteroids
- • 70% — Immunosuppressive therapy OR platelets 30-50k + hospitalization
- • 100% — Chemotherapy for chronic refractory ITP OR platelets ≤ 30,000
Language Your Rater Needs to See
These are the exact (or near-exact) regulatory phrases that unlock specific tiers. If your DBQ or C&P report doesn't use this vocabulary, the rater may default to a lower percentage even when symptoms qualify.
“Chemotherapy for chronic refractory thrombocytopenia OR platelet count 30,000 or below”
100% gate — EITHER chemotherapy for refractory disease OR persistent severe thrombocytopenia. The platelet count threshold is objective and chart-documented.
“Immunosuppressive therapy OR platelet 30-50k + hospitalization history”
Bridge to 70% via either path. Immunosuppressives (rituximab, MMF, azathioprine) are distinct from oral corticosteroids — push for the higher tier if on these meds.
“Requiring oral corticosteroid therapy”
10% = stable platelets without treatment; 30% = same platelets requiring oral corticosteroids. Prednisone Rx is the gate.
Evidence Checklist — Specific to This Condition
Hematology diagnosis of ITP
CRITICALExclusion diagnosis — rules out other causes of thrombocytopenia (TTP, HIT, drug-induced, marrow failure). Bone marrow biopsy may be required.
Platelet count trend (12+ months)
CRITICALDocuments chronicity + drives every tier. Pull serial CBC platelet values.
Treatment regimen documentation
CRITICALOral corticosteroids (30%), immunosuppressives (70%), IVIG, rituximab, thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO-RA: eltrombopag, romiplostim), chemotherapy (100%).
Bleeding episode + hospitalization history
IMPORTANTActive bleeding requiring admission anchors the 70% tier alternate path.
Splenectomy history (if performed)
IMPORTANTCommon second-line therapy for refractory ITP; rates separately under DC 7706.
Underlying or associated condition documentation
SUPPORTINGHCV, H. pylori, HIV, lupus — secondary ITP causes. May open SC pathways through the underlying condition.
C&P Exam Tips
Bring 12-month platelet count trend printed
Serial CBCs anchor the rating. Even fluctuating platelets that dip to ≤ 30k periodically support 100%.
Bring treatment regimen documentation
Prednisone (30%), immunosuppressives (70%), chemotherapy/rituximab (100%). Each medication class drives a tier.
Document any bleeding episodes or hospitalizations
Hospitalization for active ITP bleeding anchors the 70% alternate path.
Don't downplay symptoms because 'platelets are stable now'
VA rates the chronic process. If you've ever required chemotherapy or had platelets ≤ 30k, the 100% history may support the rating even if current platelets are higher.
Common Mistakes That Cost Veterans Points
Filing only the current platelet count without treatment history
DC 7705 has dual paths — platelet count AND treatment regimen. Chronic refractory ITP on immunosuppressives = 70% even with controlled platelets currently.
Not distinguishing immunosuppressives from corticosteroids
Oral corticosteroids (prednisone) = 30%. Immunosuppressives (rituximab, MMF, azathioprine) = 70%. Different tier gates. Push for the higher tier if applicable.
Missing the splenectomy secondary
Splenectomy for refractory ITP is separately ratable under DC 7706. Many veterans don't file the splenectomy claim after the procedure.
Not filing secondary to underlying SC conditions (HCV, lupus)
ITP secondary to SC HCV (DC 7354), lupus, or HIV is a direct secondary pathway. File the secondary linkage.
Tactical Plays
⚡ File based on TREATMENT REGIMEN, not just current platelet count
DC 7705 dual-path schedule — platelet count thresholds AND treatment intensity. Chronic ITP on rituximab or other immunosuppressives = 70% even if current platelets are controlled. File under whichever path yields higher rating.
⚡ Distinguish immunosuppressives from oral corticosteroids
Prednisone = 30%. Immunosuppressives (rituximab, MMF, azathioprine, cyclosporine) = 70%. Pharmacy records show this clearly. Don't let the rater conflate them.
⚡ File splenectomy separately if performed
Splenectomy is common second-line ITP therapy. DC 7706 rates separately — minimum 10%, higher for recurrent infections. Many veterans miss this stack.
Secondary Conditions to File With This One
Splenectomy residuals
STRONGDC 7706
Common second-line ITP treatment. Splenectomy rates separately at 10% post-op or higher for infection-prone status.
Hepatitis C (if associated)
MODERATEDC 7354
HCV-associated ITP — if HCV is SC, ITP is a direct secondary.
Steroid-induced complications
MODERATEChronic prednisone use causes diabetes (DC 7913), osteoporosis, cataracts (DC 6027), avascular necrosis. Each rates separately.
Major bleeding event residuals
SITUATIONALIntracranial hemorrhage, GI bleed residuals (anemia) rate separately by analogy.
Underlying autoimmune condition (lupus, etc.)
SITUATIONALSLE-associated ITP may have lupus rating in addition; check for primary autoimmune SC.
Compensation Scenarios
2026 rates (effective Dec 1, 2025, per va.gov)
0% — single, no dependents
TOTAL
$0.00/mo
Platelets > 50,000, asymptomatic.
10% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$180.42
TOTAL
$180.42/mo
Platelets 30-50k, no active treatment.
30% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$552.47
TOTAL
$552.47/mo
Platelets 30-50k, on prednisone.
70% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$1,808.45
TOTAL
$1,808.45/mo
Immunosuppressive therapy (rituximab, MMF, etc.) OR platelets 30-50k + hospitalization.
100% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$3,938.58
TOTAL
$3,938.58/mo
Chemotherapy for refractory ITP OR platelets ≤ 30,000.
70% ITP + 10% splenectomy residuals
Base rating
$2,102.15
TOTAL
$2,102.15/mo
ITP + splenectomy (DC 7706) stack under different codes.
Note: Amounts are approximations rounded to nearest dollar. Actual comp varies with effective date, dependents (spouse, children, parents — each adds), Aid & Attendance, and additional disabilities. Combined ratings use VA Math (§ 4.25), not simple addition.
Key Definitions
🩸What is immune thrombocytopenia?
An autoimmune disorder causing platelet destruction and/or impaired production. Formerly called 'idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura' (ITP). Diagnosed by exclusion of other thrombocytopenia causes.
💊What's the difference between corticosteroids and immunosuppressives?
Oral corticosteroids = prednisone, methylprednisolone (rates 30%). Immunosuppressives = rituximab, MMF, azathioprine, cyclosporine (rates 70%). The 70% tier applies to non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive therapy.
🎯What is a TPO-RA?
Thrombopoietin receptor agonist — eltrombopag (Promacta), romiplostim (Nplate), avatrombopag (Doptelet). Used in refractory ITP. May qualify for higher tiers depending on how 'molecularly targeted' interpretation applies.
↔️Does splenectomy end the ITP rating?
No. Even after splenectomy, ITP may continue (some patients relapse). The splenectomy itself rates separately under DC 7706. Both can stack.
How to File Your Claim
Confirm ITP diagnosis with hematology
Exclusion diagnosis — bone marrow biopsy if needed.
Pull 12-month platelet count trend
Serial CBCs anchor every tier.
Document treatment regimen + dosing
Distinguish corticosteroids (30%) from immunosuppressives (70%) from chemotherapy (100%).
File 21-526EZ specifying 'immune thrombocytopenia (DC 7705)'
File under highest-rating path (count OR treatment).
Stack splenectomy + steroid-induced complications + underlying SC conditions
DC 7706, DC 7913, DC 6027, etc.
Typical Claim Timeline
File initial claim
Day 0–7: Submit VA Form 21-526EZ with all medical evidence on file
VA acknowledges claim
Week 1–2: Receive confirmation letter and claim tracking number
C&P examination scheduled
Month 1–3: VA contracts an exam vendor and sends you appointment notice
Attend C&P exam
Bring your full evidence package; describe symptoms on your worst days, not your best
Decision & rating notice
Month 3–6: Decision letter with rating percentage and effective date
First payment & retro back pay
Within 15 days of decision; retroactive to claim date (or effective date if earlier)
Timeline varies by case complexity and VA regional office workload. Some claims resolve faster; others take longer.
Important Considerations
Dual-path tiers — file under higher
Platelet count path AND treatment regimen path. File under whichever yields higher rating.
Immunosuppressives ≠ Oral Corticosteroids
Prednisone = 30%. Rituximab, MMF, azathioprine = 70%. Push for higher tier if applicable.
Splenectomy rates separately under DC 7706
Common second-line ITP therapy. File the splenectomy claim separately.
File secondary to SC HCV / lupus / HIV if applicable
ITP can be secondary to multiple autoimmune and infectious conditions.
Related Tools & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How is ITP rated when my platelet count fluctuates?
DC 7705 considers both current platelet count AND treatment intensity. If you've ever required chemotherapy or immunosuppressives for refractory disease, the treatment-tier path may anchor a higher rating even when current platelets are controlled.
Does prednisone use rate the same as rituximab?
No — oral corticosteroids (prednisone) = 30%. Immunosuppressives (rituximab, MMF, azathioprine, cyclosporine) = 70%. The treatment class matters for the tier gate.
Can splenectomy for ITP rate separately?
Yes — splenectomy rates under DC 7706 (minimum 10% post-op, higher for recurrent infections). Many veterans miss filing this after the procedure.
What if my ITP is secondary to my Hepatitis C?
If HCV is SC under DC 7354, ITP can be filed as a direct secondary. HCV-associated ITP is a well-documented clinical entity. Same applies to ITP secondary to SC lupus or HIV.
Does the 70% tier require both immunosuppressives AND platelet count criteria?
No — the schedule uses OR. Immunosuppressive therapy alone qualifies for 70%. Alternate path: platelets 30-50k + hospitalization history also qualifies for 70%.
Official Regulatory Source
Immune thrombocytopenia is rated under 38 CFR § 4.117, DC 7705 — dual-path schedule (platelet count + treatment intensity).
38 CFR § 4.117 — Hemic and Lymphatic Systems (eCFR) →Scroll to DC 7705. § 4.117 was restructured in 2018.
Next Steps
If your rating decision lists DC 7705, compare your current symptoms and documentation against the criteria above. Consider:
- Requesting a copy of your rating decision and C&P exam report from the VA
- Gathering all relevant medical records (VA and private providers)
- Documenting functional limitations and how they impact work and daily activities
- Obtaining a nexus letter if needed to establish or strengthen service connection
- Filing for secondary conditions that may be related to this primary condition
- Contacting a VA-accredited VSO, claims agent, or attorney to review your file
This is general educational information only — not legal or medical advice.
Also: DC code lookup (tools) lists the same index in a compact layout.
Source: 38 CFR Part 4, Diagnostic Code 7705 • va.gov
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This page provides general educational information only based on public VA regulations (38 CFR) and va.gov resources. It is not legal, medical, or claims assistance. Ratings and service connections are decided case-by-case by the VA based on the individual veteran’s evidence. We do not prepare claims, generate documents, or provide personalized advice. Always consult a VA-accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO), attorney, or your physician for help with your specific situation. Verify the latest rules on va.gov.