Pericardial adhesions

DC 7003 Heart

Pericardial adhesions is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 7003 in the Heart category. Maximum rating: 100%.

Cardiovascular Rating Table

Metabolic Equivalents (METs) Rating Criteria

Metabolic Equivalents (METs) Rating Criteria

Source: 38 CFR ยง 4.100-4.104 - Schedule of Cardiovascular Ratings

Rating Criteria

Rating Criteria
100% Chronic congestive heart failure, or workload of 3 METs or less results in dyspnea, fatigue, angina, dizziness, or syncope, or left ventricular dysfunction with ejection fraction less than 30%
60% More than one episode of acute congestive heart failure in the past year, or workload greater than 3 METs but not greater than 5 METs results in dyspnea, fatigue, angina, dizziness, or syncope, or left ventricular dysfunction with ejection fraction of 30-50%
30% Workload greater than 5 METs but not greater than 7 METs results in dyspnea, fatigue, angina, dizziness, or syncope, or evidence of cardiac hypertrophy or dilatation on ECG, echocardiogram, or X-ray
10% Workload greater than 7 METs but not greater than 10 METs results in dyspnea, fatigue, angina, dizziness, or syncope, or continuous medication required

Important Notes

Per 38 CFR 4.104 DC 7003. Uses General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Heart (METs-based).

Filing Tips

Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.

Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.

Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.

Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.

Review the rating criteria for DC 7003 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.