Diagnostic Code 7715 · 38 CFR §4.117
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a group of cancers that originate in the lymphatic system — the network of vessels, nodes, and organs that helps your body fight infection. Symptoms can include swollen lymph nodes, unexplained weight loss, fever, night sweats, fatigue, and abdominal pain or swelling. NHL is particularly significant for veterans because it is a presumptive condition for Agent Orange exposure (Vietnam-era veterans), certain radiation-exposed veterans, and Camp Lejeune water contamination veterans. This means if you served in a qualifying location and develop NHL, the VA presumes it was caused by your service — no nexus opinion needed. During active disease and treatment, the VA assigns a 100% rating. After treatment, the rating is based on residual effects.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Active non-Hodgkin lymphoma or ongoing treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy). This 100% rating remains in place for the duration of active treatment and continues for six months after treatment ends, when the VA re-evaluates. |
| 60% | After treatment, if you have significant residual effects — chronic fatigue, immune suppression, organ damage from treatment, or frequent infections — that substantially limit your ability to work and function. |
| 30% | Post-treatment residuals including moderate fatigue, reduced stamina, or minor organ effects that limit some activities but allow generally functional daily living. |
| 10% | Minimal residual effects after successful treatment — some lingering fatigue or periodic follow-up needs, but largely able to function normally. |
| 0% | Complete remission with no residual symptoms or functional limitations. |
A biopsy-confirmed diagnosis of non-Hodgkin lymphoma is required. For presumptive service connection, you need evidence of qualifying service (Vietnam service for Agent Orange, radiation-risk activities, Camp Lejeune service). The VA will verify qualifying service through your DD-214 and service records. Oncology treatment records documenting the type of lymphoma, treatment received, and current status are essential. If claiming residual effects after treatment, document ongoing symptoms with medical records and lay statements. Lab work showing immune function, blood counts, and imaging confirming remission or progression rounds out the evidence.
Yes, for certain groups of veterans. NHL is presumptively connected to Agent Orange exposure (Vietnam, Thailand, and other qualifying locations), ionizing radiation exposure, and Camp Lejeune water contamination. If you served in any of these contexts, the VA presumes your NHL was caused by service — you do not need a separate nexus opinion.
The 100% rating continues for six months after your last treatment. Then the VA schedules a re-evaluation to assess residual effects. Your new rating will be based on any lingering symptoms and functional limitations. If you have significant residuals, you can still receive a substantial rating.
Yes. Chemotherapy and radiation cause well-documented side effects that can become chronic: peripheral neuropathy, heart damage, lung scarring, cognitive impairment, and immune suppression. Each of these can be claimed as secondary to your service-connected cancer.