Diagnostic Code 9301 · 38 CFR §4.130
DC 9301 covers major or mild neurocognitive disorder caused by HIV disease or other infections. This includes cognitive decline resulting from HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND), neurosyphilis, Lyme neuroborreliosis, viral encephalitis, and other infectious processes affecting the central nervous system. For veterans, the most common service-connected causes involve toxic exposures (Agent Orange, burn pits, industrial chemicals), vascular disease secondary to service-connected hypertension, and neurological complications of service-connected infections. The condition involves decline in cognitive functions such as memory, attention, executive function, language, or perceptual-motor ability. The VA rates it under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | A diagnosis exists but cognitive symptoms do not impair occupational or social functioning. |
| 10% | Mild cognitive decline that decreases work efficiency only during periods of significant stress, or symptoms managed by compensatory strategies. |
| 30% | Occasional decrease in work efficiency due to mild memory loss, difficulty concentrating, depressed mood about cognitive decline, or sleep problems. |
| 50% | Reduced reliability and productivity due to moderate cognitive decline affecting complex task completion, judgment, and ability to maintain effective relationships. |
| 70% | Deficiencies in most areas due to significant cognitive decline. May include disorientation, inability to manage finances or medications independently, near-continuous anxiety or depression, and neglect of self-care. |
| 100% | Total occupational and social impairment with severe cognitive decline, disorientation to time or place, inability to perform daily activities, memory loss for personal information, and need for constant supervision. |
A neuropsychological evaluation documenting cognitive decline compared to prior functioning is the strongest evidence. A diagnosis identifying the underlying physiological cause is important. Medical records linking the physiological cause to military service — such as toxic exposure records, treatment records for the underlying condition, or service treatment records — establish nexus. Brain imaging showing relevant changes can support the claim. Buddy statements from family describing cognitive decline in daily functioning are valuable.
DC 9304 is specifically for neurocognitive disorder caused by traumatic brain injury. DC 9301 covers neurocognitive disorder from all other physiological causes — vascular disease, toxic exposure, infections, and other medical conditions. The rating criteria are the same.
Yes. If toxic exposure during service caused or contributed to neurocognitive decline, DC 9301 may apply. You will need medical evidence linking the cognitive impairment to the specific exposure and documentation of the exposure itself.