Diagnostic Code 7344 · 38 CFR §4.114
Hepatitis B and C are viral infections that attack the liver. Many veterans were exposed during military service through jet gun (air gun) inoculations that were standard from the 1950s through the 1990s, blood transfusions before screening was available, combat wound treatment, or exposure to contaminated blood in field conditions. The VA has formally acknowledged jet gun inoculations as a risk factor for hepatitis transmission. While hepatitis B often clears on its own, both viruses can become chronic and progressively damage the liver over years, leading to cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | |
| 60% | |
| 40% | |
| 20% | |
| 10% | |
| 0% |
Blood tests confirming hepatitis B or C (HBsAg, anti-HCV, viral load tests), Liver function tests showing any abnormalities, Liver biopsy or FibroScan results showing degree of liver damage, Service records documenting potential exposure (jet gun inoculations, blood exposure), Treatment records including antiviral therapy if applicable, Documentation of incapacitating episodes requiring bed rest prescribed by a doctor