Cryptococcosis
Cryptococcosis is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6837, from 10% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) less than 50-percent predicted, or; Diffusion Capacity of the Lung for Carbon Monoxide by the Single Breath Method (DLCO (SB)) less than 40-percent predicted, or; maximum exercise capacity less than 15 ml/kg/min oxygen consumption with cardiorespiratory limitation, or; cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension, or; requires outpatient oxygen therapy. Most claims establish the 10% or 30% rating before reaching the top tier.
What are the VA rating criteria for Cryptococcosis?
FVC of 75- to 80-percent predicted, or; DLCO (SB) of 66- to 80-percent predicted
Note: Via General Rating Formula for Interstitial Lung Disease (diagnostic codes 6825 through 6833):
FVC of 65- to 74-percent predicted, or; DLCO (SB) of 56- to 65-percent predicted
Note: Via General Rating Formula for Interstitial Lung Disease (diagnostic codes 6825 through 6833):
FVC of 50- to 64-percent predicted, or; DLCO (SB) of 40- to 55-percent predicted, or; maximum exercise capacity of 15 to 20 ml/kg/min oxygen consumption with cardiorespiratory limitation
Note: Via General Rating Formula for Interstitial Lung Disease (diagnostic codes 6825 through 6833):
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) less than 50-percent predicted, or; Diffusion Capacity of the Lung for Carbon Monoxide by the Single Breath Method (DLCO (SB)) less than 40-percent predicted, or; maximum exercise capacity less than 15 ml/kg/min oxygen consumption with cardiorespiratory limitation, or; cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension, or; requires outpatient oxygen therapy
Note: Via General Rating Formula for Interstitial Lung Disease (diagnostic codes 6825 through 6833):
“FVC of 50- to 64-percent predicted, or; DLCO (SB) of 40- to 55-percent predicted, or; maximum exercise capacity of 15 to 20 ml/kg/min oxygen consumption with cardiorespiratory limitation”
Common Questions About Cryptococcosis VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Cryptococcosis?
The VA rates Cryptococcosis under Diagnostic Code 6837 at 10%, 30%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 10% rating requires: FVC of 75- to 80-percent predicted, or; DLCO (SB) of 66- to 80-percent predicted. The maximum 100% rating requires: Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) less than 50-percent predicted, or; Diffusion Capacity of the Lung for Carbon Monoxide by the Single Breath Method (DLCO (SB)) less than 40-percent predicted, or; maximum exercise capacity less than 15 ml/kg/min oxygen consumption with cardiorespiratory limitation, or; cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension, or; requires outpatient oxygen therapy.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Cryptococcosis?
The VA rates Cryptococcosis under Diagnostic Code (DC) 6837, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 10% and a 100% rating for Cryptococcosis?
A 10% rating requires: FVC of 75- to 80-percent predicted, or; DLCO (SB) of 66- to 80-percent predicted. A 100% rating requires: Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) less than 50-percent predicted, or; Diffusion Capacity of the Lung for Carbon Monoxide by the Single Breath Method (DLCO (SB)) less than 40-percent predicted, or; maximum exercise capacity less than 15 ml/kg/min oxygen consumption with cardiorespiratory limitation, or; cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension, or; requires outpatient oxygen therapy. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Cryptococcosis qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Cryptococcosis may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Cryptococcosis?
Service connection for Cryptococcosis requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.
What is the C&P exam like for Cryptococcosis?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Cryptococcosis uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.
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