Diagnostic Code 7916 · 38 CFR §4.119
Hyperpituitarism refers to excess hormone production by the pituitary gland, most commonly a prolactinoma (prolactin-producing tumor). Excess prolactin causes sexual dysfunction, infertility, breast discharge (galactorrhea), bone density loss, and headaches. In men, it causes testosterone deficiency with fatigue, muscle loss, and mood changes. The pituitary can also overproduce growth hormone (causing acromegaly, rated under DC 7908) or ACTH (causing Cushing disease, rated under DC 7907). Veterans may develop pituitary tumors related to head trauma during service or from unknown causes.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| See pathways% | DC 7916 has no native percentage scale. The VA evaluates hyperpituitarism as either a malignant or benign neoplasm. Malignant pituitary tumors are rated under DC 7914 (malignant neoplasm of endocrine system) — 100% mandatory during active treatment, six-month carryover, then residuals. Benign tumors are rated under DC 7915 — by the hormonal dysfunction they cause (acromegaly under DC 7908, Cushing under DC 7907, etc.). |
MRI of the pituitary showing the tumor is essential. Hormone level testing documenting prolactin elevation (or other excess hormones) confirms the diagnosis. Treatment records showing medication use or surgical intervention demonstrate management. Vision testing if the tumor is near the optic chiasm documents visual effects. Sexual function and bone density assessments show the broader impact.
Traumatic brain injury can damage the pituitary gland, and some research suggests it may contribute to tumor development. More commonly, head trauma causes pituitary dysfunction without a visible tumor. If you developed pituitary problems after a service-connected TBI, the dysfunction can be claimed as secondary to the brain injury.
DC 7916 directs the VA to evaluate as malignant or benign neoplasm. Since most prolactinomas are benign, they fall under DC 7915 (rated as residuals of endocrine dysfunction). The actual rating percentages come from the hormonal consequences — sexual dysfunction, bone loss, vision problems — each under its own body system code.