Cirrhosis of the Liver
Cirrhosis of the liver is rated under DC 7312 based on the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score and associated symptoms. The diagnosis must be confirmed by biopsy, biochemical studies, or imaging, along with abnormal liver function tests. This is a presumptive condition if diagnosed within one year of separation, or for former POWs held at least 30 days.
VA Rating Levels
No symptoms.
MELD score greater than 6 but less than 10, or symptoms of weakness, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, or general unease.
MELD score of 10 or 11, or portal hypertension with enlarged spleen or ascites (fluid in the abdomen) along with symptoms of weakness, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, or unease.
MELD score greater than 11 but less than 15, or daily fatigue with at least one episode in the past year of variceal hemorrhage, portal gastropathy, or hepatic encephalopathy.
MELD score of 15 or greater, or continuous debilitating symptoms with generalized weakness and at least one of the following: ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, hepatic encephalopathy, variceal hemorrhage, coagulopathy, portal gastropathy, or hepatopulmonary/hepatorenal syndrome.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Your MELD score is a central factor in your rating. Ask your doctor about your current score and make sure it is documented in your medical records.
- →This diagnosis must be confirmed by biopsy, imaging, or biochemical studies alongside abnormal liver function tests. If you do not have these documented, the rating cannot be assigned.
- →Cirrhosis can develop from hepatitis C, chronic alcohol use, or other liver diseases. If you have service-connected hepatitis and it has progressed to cirrhosis, that secondary link should be documented.
- →Fatty liver disease on its own is not ratable by the VA. However, if it has progressed to cirrhosis, then it can be rated under this schedule.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.114, DC 7312