Claim Raven explanation
What this means
The rating schedule does not expect every atypical case to show every finding described in a detailed rating level. Findings must still identify the disease and resulting disability, with the rating coordinated with functional impairment.
This general rule must be read with the wording of the actual diagnostic code. Some criteria have particular requirements, so this section should not be treated as permission to ignore a required test, finding, or combination of factors.
How this helps your claim
It helps you compare the overall disability picture with the decision's explanation. Describe the supported impairment and the relevant criteria together instead of relying on a single symptom in isolation.
What to check in your records
Use your decision, examination reports, and relevant records to check the following points.
- Read the full diagnostic code and its notes, not only one percentage line.
- Match the documented functional effects to the findings discussed in the code.
- Identify how VA explained the relationship between the evidence and the evaluation.
Read detailed criteria with the disability picture
Some rating descriptions contain several findings that illustrate a level of disability. This provision recognizes that atypical cases may not display every listed feature. The findings still need to identify the disease and its disabling effects adequately.
Begin with the diagnostic code's actual wording and structure. A general principle about atypical cases should not be used to disregard a mandatory measurement or a specifically required combination of findings. Explain how the documented function relates to the criteria rather than counting symptoms without context.
Does this mean all diagnostic criteria are optional?
No. The section coordinates evaluation with functional impairment but must be read with the particular code. Different codes work differently. A missing required finding cannot be supplied by simply quoting this general provision or asserting that the overall condition feels equally severe.
Official regulatory text
38 CFR § 4.21
eCFR snapshot: September 3, 2026. Layout and spacing are adapted for reading. The full section and its tables are included below.
§ 4.21 Application of rating schedule.
In view of the number of atypical instances it is not expected, especially with the more fully described grades of disabilities, that all cases will show all the findings specified. Findings sufficiently characteristic to identify the disease and the disability therefrom, and above all, coordination of rating with impairment of function will, however, be expected in all instances.
[41 FR 11293, Mar. 18, 1976]
Related references
- 38 CFR § 4.1: What a VA disability rating measures
- 38 CFR § 3.159: VA duty to assist: records and examinations
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