Hypogonadism (Low Testosterone)

DC 7912 §4.119 Endocrine ICD-10: E29.1 DirectSecondary

Often secondary to PTSD, opioid use for chronic pain, or testicular conditions. Can trigger SMC-K if causing ED.

Often claimed secondary to

If you're already service-connected for any of these, Hypogonadism (Low Testosterone) is often a viable secondary claim.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Mental health condition from experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Stressor verification required (except combat-related, which is presumed if consistent with circumstances of service).

Common secondaries from this condition

If Hypogonadism (Low Testosterone) is service-connected, these are conditions worth investigating as secondaries (caused or aggravated by it).

Erectile Dysfunction

Almost always rated 0% — but unlocks SMC-K ($139.87/mo for life). Easiest path is secondary to mental health or diabetes.

Filing this claim

For most veterans this is filed as a secondary claim. You need a nexus letter linking it to a service-connected primary condition. Use the letter generators to draft your nexus letter and Statement in Support of Claim.

Step by step

File an Intent to File (Form 21-0966) to lock your effective date.
Confirm you have a current medical diagnosis in a medical record.
Get a nexus letter — magic phrase: "at least as likely as not."
Write a Statement in Support of Claim (21-4138).
If applicable, gather buddy statements (21-10210).
File the formal 21-526EZ.

Source: 38 CFR §4.119. For exact regulatory language, consult eCFR Title 38. This is general education — for your specific case, consult a VA-accredited representative.