diabetes Polyneuropathy or Peripheral Neuropathy?

[conla]

The Neurologist daignosed me with Diabetic Polyneuropathy instead of Peripheral Neuropathy. Does it matter or are the two terms the same? He told me I should file Diabetic Polyneuropathy, secondary to Diabetes. If the two terms are the same thing then why shouldn't I file the presumptive Peripheral Neuropathy?

[green]

I don't think it really matters what the neurologist called it (polyneuropathy or peripheral neuropathy).  The VA rating is based on the nerve affected not the terminology in question.  Nerves affected in the hand are rated individually for a single affected nerve or they use a combined radicular group if more than one nerve is affected.  Nerves in the feet are rated separately up to the maximum allowed for loss of limb (or 40% per foot).  The bilateral factor is also applied when the nerve damage is on both feet or both hands.

 

I hope this helps

[conla]

Thanks for the reply, Since I am SC'd for DMII should I file secondary to DMII or file for the presumptive Peripheral Neuropathy?

[green]

There is a clear relationship between diabettes and PN, I would (and did) file for it as a secondary.