What Is Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma?

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system. In this type of cancer, tumors develop from lymphocytes, a type of immune cell. These lymphocytes play an important role in keeping the body healthy and infection free, so when a person develops non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma it can take a serious toll on the functioning of his or her immune system. Some of the most common symptoms associated with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma are:

  • Painless, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, groin, or armpits 
  • Fever
  • Persistent fatigue
  • Chest pain, coughing, or trouble breathing
  • unexplained weight loss
  • abdominal pain or swelling

In most cases, doctors do not know the cause of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. In some cases, it’s due to a weakened immune system. In others, environmental factors have been shown to play a role. Of particular consequence for veterans, scientific studies have shown that Agent Orange is one of those environmental factors. Veterans who can prove they served in an area of presumptive Agent Orange exposure in service are eligible for presumptive service connection for their non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

How The VA Rates Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Under 38 CFR § 4.117, the VA evaluates the severity of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma as follows:

Diagnostic Code 7715: Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma

  • 100 – When there is active disease, during treatment phase, or with indolent and non-contiguous phase of low grade NHL

A 100 percent schedular disability rating will continue after the end of any surgical, radiation, or other therapies for two years. After that point, the VA will request that the veteran complete a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam to evaluate his or her condition and determine the proper schedular disability rating. 

Help With Your Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Claim

If you are a veteran with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and are looking for assistance with your veteran’s disability claim, please contact our office today. Our veterans disability attorneys are experienced in getting veterans with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma service connection for their condition and are ready to help you get the compensation you deserve.