Diagnostic Code 7702 · 38 CFR §4.117
Agranulocytosis is a dangerous reduction in granulocytes (a type of white blood cell essential for fighting bacterial infections). When granulocyte counts drop critically low, the body loses its ability to fight infections, making even minor infections potentially life-threatening. For veterans, this condition can result from toxic chemical exposure during service (including Agent Orange and other herbicides), radiation exposure, medication side effects from drugs prescribed during service, or bone marrow damage from service-connected conditions. The VA rates the condition based on the frequency and severity of infections and the need for ongoing treatment.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | History of agranulocytosis that has resolved with no current need for treatment and stable blood counts. |
| 10% | Agranulocytosis requiring continuous medication to maintain adequate granulocyte levels. |
| 30% | Agranulocytosis requiring intermittent treatment with growth factors or antibiotics and resulting in occasional infections. |
| 60% | Agranulocytosis with frequent severe infections requiring hospitalization despite ongoing treatment. |
| 100% | Agranulocytosis with persistent critical granulocyte levels causing recurrent life-threatening infections, requiring continuous intensive treatment. |
Complete blood count (CBC) results showing the low granulocyte levels are essential. Hematology records documenting the diagnosis and ongoing monitoring are needed. Records of infections resulting from the low white blood cell counts demonstrate severity. Service treatment records or exposure documentation linking the condition to service help establish nexus. Medication records showing treatments (growth factor injections, prophylactic antibiotics) support the severity. A hematology nexus opinion is recommended.
Yes. Exposure to certain chemicals, radiation, and herbicides during service can damage bone marrow and lead to agranulocytosis. Documentation of the exposure and a hematology nexus opinion connecting the condition to the exposure is needed.