38 CFR Part 4 — 38 CFR § 4.117
Hodgkin S Lymphoma
dc-7709-hodgkin-s-lymphoma
Hematologic / lymphatic
Diagnostic code
7709
Why your DC matters: DC 7709 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 7709 — Hodgkin S Lymphoma — 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 (7709) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / ⌘F) for “7709”. 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 7709 (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 7709 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
DC 7709 (Hodgkin's lymphoma — title updated from 'Hodgkin's disease' to current medical terminology) is fixed 100% during active disease and treatment, continuing for 6 MONTHS after cessation of all therapy (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy), then mandatory VA examination. After re-exam, rate on residuals. Hodgkin's lymphoma is a B-cell lymphoid malignancy distinguished by Reed-Sternberg cells on biopsy — historically considered a separate entity from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (DC 7715), though both share the AO presumptive lane and similar rating mechanics. Critical service-connection lanes: (1) Agent Orange presumptive since 1996 (38 CFR § 3.309(e)) for Vietnam-era qualifying service — Hodgkin's was added before NHL, (2) PACT Act presumptive for post-9/11 qualifying service, (3) atomic veteran radiation-exposure path under § 3.309(d).
Rating Tiers — What Each Percentage Requires
| Rating | What It Takes | Evidence That Supports It |
|---|---|---|
| 100% | Hodgkin's lymphoma with active disease OR during any treatment phase (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy). 100% rating continues for 6 months after cessation of all therapy. Mandatory VA examination at 6-month mark. | Excisional lymph node biopsy showing Reed-Sternberg cells; subtype classification (classical Hodgkin's — nodular sclerosis, mixed cellularity, lymphocyte-rich, lymphocyte-depleted — or nodular lymphocyte predominant); staging (Ann Arbor); treatment regimen and dates. |
| 0% | After mandatory VA examination at 6-month post-treatment mark, rate on residuals under appropriate DCs (no local recurrence or metastasis). | Post-treatment PET/CT showing complete response; residual conditions (chemo-induced neuropathy, cardiomyopathy, pulmonary fibrosis, infertility, secondary malignancies) rated separately. |
What Qualifies Under DC 7709?
Hodgkin's lymphoma diagnosis (Reed-Sternberg cells)
Excisional lymph node biopsy showing Reed-Sternberg cells. Distinguishes from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Subtype classification: classical Hodgkin's (nodular sclerosis, mixed cellularity, lymphocyte-rich, lymphocyte-depleted) or nodular lymphocyte predominant.
Agent Orange presumptive (38 CFR § 3.309(e))
On the AO presumptive list since 1996. Vietnam-era boots-on-ground OR brown-water Navy OR Korean DMZ qualifying service triggers presumption.
PACT Act presumptive (38 CFR § 3.320)
Lymphomas on the PACT Act presumptive list. Post-9/11 qualifying SW Asia / Afghanistan service triggers presumption.
Fixed 100% during active disease / treatment + 6-month tail
100% rating continues throughout active disease and entire treatment course, plus 6 months after cessation of all therapy. Mandatory VA exam at 6-month mark determines residual rating.
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.
“Active disease OR during treatment phase”
Anchor for fixed 100% during active disease and through entire treatment course. Treatment includes induction, consolidation, salvage chemotherapy, radiation, stem cell transplant, immunotherapy (brentuximab vedotin, pembrolizumab, nivolumab).
“100% rating continues 6 months after cessation of all therapy”
The 6-month post-treatment tail is automatic. Don't let VA prematurely reduce before the 6-month exam. Document treatment-end date precisely.
“Reed-Sternberg cells on excisional lymph node biopsy”
Pathognomonic for Hodgkin's lymphoma. Distinguishes from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (DC 7715). Required for DC 7709 specifically.
“Post-treatment residuals (chemo-induced neuropathy, cardiomyopathy, pulmonary fibrosis, infertility, secondary malignancies)”
After 6-month re-exam, rate residuals separately. Doxorubicin (Adriamycin) cardiomyopathy, bleomycin pulmonary toxicity, neuropathy, hypothyroidism from radiation, infertility, secondary leukemia / MDS — all rateable secondaries.
Evidence Checklist — Specific to This Condition
Excisional lymph node biopsy showing Reed-Sternberg cells
CRITICALDefinitive diagnostic anchor. Distinguishes Hodgkin's from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Subtype classification matters for prognosis and treatment.
Ann Arbor staging documentation (Stage I-IV) + bulky disease assessment
CRITICALStaging determines treatment intensity. PET/CT for staging, bone marrow biopsy for advanced stage.
Treatment records — chemotherapy regimen, radiation, immunotherapy
CRITICALABVD, escalated BEACOPP, brentuximab-AVD, salvage regimens, autologous stem cell transplant, immunotherapy. Documents disease activity and treatment dates.
Agent Orange presumption documentation (if Vietnam-era)
CRITICALDD-214 + boots-on-ground OR brown-water Navy OR Korean DMZ qualifying service. Hodgkin's on AO presumptive list since 1996.
PACT Act presumption documentation (if post-9/11)
CRITICALDD-214 + qualifying SW Asia / Afghanistan service. Lymphomas on PACT presumptive list.
Post-treatment PET/CT showing response
IMPORTANTComplete metabolic response anchors the 6-month tail. Partial response, refractory, or recurrent disease may extend 100% beyond the 6-month mark.
Residuals workup (cardiac echo, PFTs, neuropathy assessment, thyroid)
IMPORTANTDoxorubicin cardiotoxicity, bleomycin pulmonary toxicity, chemo-induced neuropathy, radiation-induced hypothyroidism — periodic surveillance.
C&P Exam Tips
Bring excisional biopsy + Reed-Sternberg confirmation
Anchors Hodgkin's lymphoma diagnosis (vs. NHL).
Bring service-period documentation for AO / PACT presumption
Vietnam-era + qualifying service (AO presumption since 1996) OR post-9/11 qualifying service (PACT presumption) skip the in-service nexus burden.
Bring treatment timeline with precise start/end dates
Anchors the 6-month post-treatment 100% tail. Don't let VA prematurely reduce.
Don't conflate with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (DC 7715)
Different DC, different specific schedule details. Reed-Sternberg cells = Hodgkin's = DC 7709. No Reed-Sternberg = NHL = DC 7715.
Common Mistakes That Cost Veterans Points
Missing the Agent Orange presumption
Hodgkin's lymphoma has been on the AO presumptive list since 1996 (38 CFR § 3.309(e)). Vietnam-era + qualifying service = presumption. File under § 3.309(e) explicitly.
Missing the PACT Act presumption
Lymphomas are on the PACT Act presumptive list for post-9/11 qualifying service. File under § 3.320 explicitly.
Accepting reduction before the 6-month post-treatment mark
The 6-month continued 100% tail is automatic per DC 7709. Don't let VA reduce before the mandatory exam at the 6-month mark. Track the treatment-end date.
Not pursuing residuals after 6-month mark
Doxorubicin cardiotoxicity, bleomycin pulmonary fibrosis, chemo-induced neuropathy, radiation-induced hypothyroidism, infertility, secondary leukemia / MDS — all rateable. Build the surveillance file proactively.
Tactical Plays
⚡ File under AO presumption if Vietnam-era qualifying service
Hodgkin's lymphoma has been on the AO presumptive list since 1996 (38 CFR § 3.309(e)). Vietnam-era boots-on-ground OR brown-water Navy OR Korean DMZ qualifying service triggers presumption — VA must rebut, not the veteran prove.
⚡ File under PACT Act presumption if post-9/11 qualifying service
Lymphomas (including Hodgkin's) are on the PACT Act presumptive list per 38 CFR § 3.320. Post-9/11 qualifying SW Asia / Afghanistan service triggers presumption. Cite explicitly.
⚡ Track treatment-end date precisely — anchors the 6-month tail
DC 7709 specifies 100% continues for 6 months after cessation of ALL therapy (surgery, radiation, chemo, immunotherapy). Document the last treatment date precisely. The mandatory VA exam at the 6-month mark determines residual rating.
⚡ Build residuals surveillance file proactively
Hodgkin's treatment has well-documented late effects: doxorubicin cardiomyopathy, bleomycin pulmonary toxicity, chemo-induced peripheral neuropathy, radiation-induced hypothyroidism, infertility, secondary malignancies (AML, MDS, breast cancer in women with mantle radiation). Annual surveillance — file each residual separately as it emerges.
Secondary Conditions to File With This One
Chemotherapy-induced cardiomyopathy (doxorubicin)
STRONGDC 7020
Doxorubicin (Adriamycin) in ABVD regimen causes dose-dependent cardiomyopathy. Echo with EF assessment. Rates separately.
Pulmonary fibrosis (bleomycin toxicity)
STRONGDC 6825 / 6833
Bleomycin in ABVD regimen causes pulmonary toxicity. PFTs with FVC/DLCO. Rates separately under interstitial lung disease formula.
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy
STRONGDC 8520 / 8620 / 8720
Vinblastine and other agents cause peripheral neuropathy. Rates bilaterally under nerve DCs.
Radiation-induced hypothyroidism
STRONGDC 7903
Mantle field or involved-field radiation to neck causes secondary hypothyroidism. TSH monitoring. Rates under DC 7903.
Infertility (chemo-induced gonadal toxicity)
MODERATEAlkylating agents (cyclophosphamide, dacarbazine) cause infertility. May rate under reproductive system DCs depending on severity.
Secondary malignancies (leukemia, MDS)
MODERATEDC 7703 / various
Late effect of chemotherapy / radiation. Treatment-related AML or MDS years to decades post-Hodgkin's treatment. Direct secondary.
Depression secondary to cancer / treatment
STRONGDC 9434
Cancer diagnosis, treatment burden, fertility concerns, survivorship issues drive depression. Well-documented.
Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-L (statutorily housebound))
100% DC 7709 during active disease/treatment + additional independent disabilities combining to 60%+. Late-effect residuals (cardiomyopathy, pulmonary fibrosis, neuropathy, hypothyroidism) stack to reach SMC L predicate.
SMC-L (statutorily housebound) monthly add-on
+$4,805.45
Added on top of your schedular rating.
Compensation Scenarios
2026 rates (effective Dec 1, 2025, per va.gov)
100% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$3,938.58
TOTAL
$3,938.58/mo
Active disease or during treatment + 6-month post-treatment tail.
100% DC 7709 + 60% DC 7020 doxorubicin cardiomyopathy + 60% DC 6825 bleomycin fibrosis → SMC L
Base rating
$4,805.45
TOTAL
$4,805.45/mo
Multi-organ late effects = SMC L predicate.
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 are Reed-Sternberg Cells?
Reed-Sternberg cells are large, multinucleated B-cells with characteristic 'owl-eye' appearance, pathognomonic for Hodgkin's lymphoma. Identified on excisional lymph node biopsy with immunohistochemistry (CD30+, CD15+ for classical Hodgkin's). Distinguishes Hodgkin's from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
↔️Hodgkin's vs. Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma?
Hodgkin's (DC 7709) has Reed-Sternberg cells; rates under DC 7709 with 6-month post-treatment tail. Non-Hodgkin's (DC 7715) lacks Reed-Sternberg cells; covers many B-cell, T-cell, and NK-cell lymphomas; also rates with 6-month post-treatment tail under DC 7715. Both AO presumptive (Hodgkin's added 1996, NHL added earlier).
🎖️Is Hodgkin's Lymphoma a PACT Act presumptive?
Yes — lymphomas (including Hodgkin's) are on the PACT Act presumptive list per 38 CFR § 3.320. Post-9/11 qualifying SW Asia / Afghanistan service triggers presumption. This is in addition to the long-standing AO presumption (§ 3.309(e), since 1996) for Vietnam-era veterans.
⏳What are the late effects of Hodgkin's treatment?
Doxorubicin cardiotoxicity (cardiomyopathy), bleomycin pulmonary toxicity (fibrosis), chemo-induced peripheral neuropathy, mantle/involved-field radiation-induced hypothyroidism, infertility (alkylating agents), secondary malignancies (treatment-related AML/MDS, breast cancer in women with mantle radiation 20+ years post-treatment). Each rateable as direct secondary.
How to File Your Claim
Pull excisional biopsy + Reed-Sternberg confirmation + staging documentation
Anchors Hodgkin's lymphoma diagnosis. Required for DC 7709 specifically.
Document AO presumption pathway if Vietnam-era qualifying service
DD-214 + deployment records. AO presumption since 1996 (§ 3.309(e)).
Document PACT Act presumption pathway if post-9/11 qualifying service
DD-214 + deployment records. PACT Act presumption (§ 3.320).
File 21-526EZ specifying 'Hodgkin's lymphoma (DC 7709)' under § 3.309(e) AND/OR § 3.320 presumption
Cite the applicable presumption lane explicitly.
Build residuals surveillance file proactively (cardiac, pulmonary, neuro, thyroid, fertility, secondary cancer)
Late effects of Hodgkin's treatment are well-documented and rateable. Annual surveillance.
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
Agent Orange presumptive since 1996
Vietnam-era + qualifying service triggers presumption (38 CFR § 3.309(e)). File explicitly.
PACT Act presumptive for post-9/11 service
Lymphomas on PACT Act presumptive list (38 CFR § 3.320). Newer lane.
6-month post-treatment continued 100%
Track treatment-end date precisely. Mandatory VA exam at 6-month mark.
Late effects — build surveillance file proactively
Cardiomyopathy, pulmonary fibrosis, neuropathy, hypothyroidism, infertility, secondary cancers. Each rateable separately.
Related Tools & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hodgkin's lymphoma an Agent Orange presumptive condition?
Yes — Hodgkin's lymphoma has been on the Agent Orange presumptive list since 1996 (38 CFR § 3.309(e)). Vietnam-era boots-on-ground OR brown-water Navy OR Korean DMZ 1968-1971 qualifying service triggers presumption — VA must rebut the service connection, not the veteran prove. File under § 3.309(e) explicitly.
How long does the 100% rating continue after treatment ends?
DC 7709 specifies the 100% rating continues for 6 MONTHS after cessation of all therapy (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy). The mandatory VA examination at the 6-month mark determines residual rating. Don't let VA prematurely reduce — track the precise treatment-end date.
What's the difference between DC 7709 and DC 7715?
DC 7709 covers Hodgkin's lymphoma — identified by Reed-Sternberg cells on biopsy. DC 7715 covers non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) — lacks Reed-Sternberg cells, includes many B-cell, T-cell, and NK-cell lymphomas. Both AO presumptive. Both rate with 6-month post-treatment continued 100% under similar mechanics. The DC selection depends on biopsy findings — match the pathologic subtype to the correct code.
What residuals should I file after the 6-month mark?
Hodgkin's treatment has well-documented late effects: doxorubicin cardiomyopathy (DC 7020), bleomycin pulmonary toxicity (DC 6825/6833), chemo-induced peripheral neuropathy (DC 8520-series), radiation-induced hypothyroidism (DC 7903), infertility, secondary malignancies (treatment-related AML/MDS, breast cancer in women with mantle radiation 20+ years post-treatment). Each rateable as a direct secondary to SC Hodgkin's.
Is Hodgkin's lymphoma a PACT Act presumptive condition?
Yes — lymphomas are on the PACT Act presumptive list per 38 CFR § 3.320. Post-9/11 qualifying SW Asia / Afghanistan service triggers presumption. File under § 3.320 if applicable to your service period. This is in addition to the AO presumption for Vietnam-era veterans.
Official Regulatory Source
Hodgkin's lymphoma rates under 38 CFR § 4.117, DC 7709 — 100% during active disease and treatment + 6-month post-treatment tail.
38 CFR § 4.117 — Hemic and Lymphatic Systems (eCFR) →Scroll to DC 7709. AO presumption per 38 CFR § 3.309(e) (since 1996). PACT Act presumption per 38 CFR § 3.320. Compare DC 7715 (non-Hodgkin's lymphoma) for differential.
Next Steps
If your rating decision lists DC 7709, 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 7709 • 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.