Diagnostic Code 7347 · 38 CFR §4.114
Chronic pancreatitis is the progressive, irreversible scarring and destruction of the pancreas from repeated episodes of inflammation. Unlike acute pancreatitis (a temporary flare), chronic pancreatitis means permanent structural damage that gets worse over time. The pancreas gradually loses its ability to produce digestive enzymes and insulin. This leads to chronic abdominal pain that can be severe and debilitating, malabsorption of food causing greasy stools and weight loss, and eventually diabetes from loss of insulin production. Veterans may develop this from gallstone complications, medication effects, abdominal trauma, or alcohol use related to service-connected mental health conditions.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | |
| 60% | |
| 30% | |
| 10% |
CT or MRI showing chronic pancreatic changes (calcifications, duct irregularities, atrophy), Endoscopic ultrasound results if performed, Fecal elastase test showing pancreatic enzyme insufficiency, HbA1c and blood glucose records if diabetes has developed, Hospitalization records for acute-on-chronic episodes, Records of enzyme replacement therapy (Creon, Zenpep, etc.) and dosages