Buerger's Disease (Thromboangiitis Obliterans)
Buerger's disease is rated under DC 7115. This condition causes inflammation and clotting in the blood vessels of the hands and feet. Ratings are based on claudication, trophic changes, and limb pain. If the legs are affected, they are rated under the peripheral vascular disease schedule (DC 7114) instead. Each affected limb receives its own separate rating.
VA Rating Levels
Claudication on walking more than 100 yards, with diminished peripheral pulses or ankle/brachial index of 0.9 or less.
Claudication on walking between 25 and 100 yards on a flat surface, with or without trophic changes. ABI of 0.7 or less.
Claudication on walking less than 25 yards on a flat surface, with trophic changes. ABI of 0.5 or less.
Ischemic limb pain at rest, or deep ischemic ulcers, with severe arterial insufficiency confirmed by vascular studies.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →If your legs are affected by Buerger's disease, they will be rated under the peripheral vascular disease code (DC 7114) rather than this one.
- →Each limb is rated individually, so if multiple extremities are involved, each one gets its own evaluation.
- →This condition is strongly associated with tobacco use. If your smoking began or worsened during service, establish that connection in your records.
- →Document all trophic changes, including skin thinning, hair loss, and nail abnormalities. These findings support higher ratings.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.104, DC 7115