Diagnostic Code 7709 · 38 CFR §4.117
Hodgkin disease (also called Hodgkin lymphoma) is a cancer of the lymphatic system characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells. It typically presents with painless swelling of lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, weight loss, and fatigue. For veterans, Hodgkin disease is a presumptive condition for Agent Orange exposure — any veteran who served in Vietnam, Thailand (at certain bases), or other qualifying locations and later develops Hodgkin disease is presumed to have a service-connected condition. The VA assigns a mandatory 100 percent rating during active disease or treatment.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Active Hodgkin disease or during treatment. The 100% rating continues for six months after cessation of treatment. After reassessment, residual effects are rated under applicable diagnostic codes. If there is no recurrence or residual, the minimum rating is based on the applicable condition. |
Pathology reports confirming the Hodgkin disease diagnosis are essential. For Agent Orange presumptive claims, proof of qualifying service (DD-214, personnel records) is sufficient for nexus — no additional medical nexus opinion is needed. Treatment records documenting chemotherapy, radiation, and follow-up care are needed for the rating. For non-presumptive claims, an oncology nexus letter linking the cancer to service is required.
Yes. Hodgkin disease is on the Agent Orange presumptive list. Veterans who served in qualifying locations do not need a separate nexus opinion — proof of service and the diagnosis is sufficient.
They are different types of lymphatic cancer with different pathology. Both are on the Agent Orange presumptive list. Hodgkin disease is rated under DC 7709 and non-Hodgkin lymphoma under DC 7715.