Diagnostic code
Diagnostic Code 7903: Hypothyroidism Rating Criteria
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.119
- Rating range
- 30% to 100%
- Rating levels
- 2
- Body system
- Endocrine system
The VA rates Hypothyroidism under diagnostic code 7903 in 38 CFR § 4.119. The table below is the full set of rating criteria, from the schedule itself, with the evidence factors raters look for at each level.
DC 7903 rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | Hypothyroidism without myxedema (continues for six months after initial diagnosis, then rate residuals under the appropriate codes) What raters look forwithout myxedema; 6 month window |
| 100% | Hypothyroidism with myxedema: cold intolerance, muscular weakness, cardiovascular involvement (e.g. hypotension, bradycardia, pericardial effusion), and mental disturbance (e.g. dementia, slowed thought, depression) What raters look formyxedema; cardiovascular involvement; mental disturbance |
Condition guide
The rating criteria are only part of the picture for Hypothyroidism. The Hypothyroidism condition page covers service connection, common evidence problems, secondary conditions, and Board outcome patterns in depth.
What happens to Hypothyroidism appeals at the Board
Claim Raven's analysis of 549 decided Board of Veterans' Appeals cases with Hypothyroidism as the primary issue. The Hypothyroidism condition page has the full breakdown, including which evidence types are associated with better outcomes.
Method: outcomes are coded per case from the Board's published decisions, rolled up as granted (including partial grants), denied, or remanded, excluding dismissals. The dataset codes the condition on appeal, not the diagnostic code, so these numbers describe Hypothyroidism appeals generally rather than DC 7903 specifically. Board outcomes describe appealed claims, not initial decisions.
Frequently asked questions
What is VA diagnostic code 7903?
Diagnostic code 7903 is the VA rating schedule entry for Hypothyroidism, found in 38 CFR § 4.119. The VA assigns this code when it rates the condition and applies the criteria listed on this page.
What ratings are possible under DC 7903?
DC 7903 provides ratings of 30%, 100%. The percentage depends on which criteria your medical evidence documents, not on the diagnosis alone.
What does the highest rating under DC 7903 require?
The 100% rating for Hypothyroidism requires: Hypothyroidism with myxedema: cold intolerance, muscular weakness, cardiovascular involvement (e.g. hypotension, bradycardia, pericardial effusion), and mental disturbance (e.g. dementia, slowed thought, depression).