Drug-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and fibrosis
Drug-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and fibrosis is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6829, from 100% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: Active infection with systemic symptoms such as fever, night sweats, weight loss, or hemoptysis. Most claims establish the 100% or 100% rating before reaching the top tier.
What are the VA rating criteria for Drug-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and fibrosis?
Active infection with systemic symptoms such as fever, night sweats, weight loss, or hemoptysis
Note: Via General Rating Formula for Bacterial Infections of the Lung (diagnostic codes 6822 through 6824):
“Active infection with systemic symptoms such as fever, night sweats, weight loss, or hemoptysis”
Common Questions About Drug-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and fibrosis VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Drug-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and fibrosis?
The VA rates Drug-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and fibrosis under Diagnostic Code 6829 at 100%. The minimum 100% rating requires: Active infection with systemic symptoms such as fever, night sweats, weight loss, or hemoptysis. The maximum 100% rating requires: Active infection with systemic symptoms such as fever, night sweats, weight loss, or hemoptysis.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Drug-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and fibrosis?
The VA rates Drug-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and fibrosis under Diagnostic Code (DC) 6829, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
Can Drug-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and fibrosis qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Drug-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and fibrosis 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 Drug-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and fibrosis?
Service connection for Drug-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and fibrosis 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 Drug-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and fibrosis?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Drug-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and fibrosis 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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