HIV-related illness
HIV-related illness is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.88b, Diagnostic Code 6351, from 0% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: AIDS with recurrent opportunistic infections (see Note 3) or with secondary diseases afflicting multiple body systems; HIV-related illness with debility and progressive weight loss. Most claims establish the 0% or 10% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 6351 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 100%
- Rating tiers
- 5
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.88b
- Body system
- Infectious Diseases
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
Full schedular disability
0%, 10%, 30%, 60%, 100%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for HIV-related illness?
Asymptomatic, following initial diagnosis of HIV infection, with or without lymphadenopathy or decreased T4 cell count
Following development of HIV-related constitutional symptoms; T4 cell count between 200 and 500; use of approved medication(s); or with evidence of depression or memory loss with employment limitations
Recurrent constitutional symptoms, intermittent diarrhea, and use of approved medication(s); or minimum rating with T4 cell count less than 200
Refractory constitutional symptoms, diarrhea, and pathological weight loss; or minimum rating following development of AIDS-related opportunistic infection or neoplasm
AIDS with recurrent opportunistic infections (see Note 3) or with secondary diseases afflicting multiple body systems; HIV-related illness with debility and progressive weight loss
“Recurrent constitutional symptoms, intermittent diarrhea, and use of approved medication(s); or minimum rating with T4 cell count less than 200”
Common Questions About HIV-related illness VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for HIV-related illness?
The VA rates HIV-related illness under Diagnostic Code 6351 at 0%, 10%, 30%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Asymptomatic, following initial diagnosis of HIV infection, with or without lymphadenopathy or decreased T4 cell count. The maximum 100% rating requires: AIDS with recurrent opportunistic infections (see Note 3) or with secondary diseases afflicting multiple body systems; HIV-related illness with debility and progressive weight loss.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for HIV-related illness?
The VA rates HIV-related illness under Diagnostic Code (DC) 6351, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.88b. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 0% and a 100% rating for HIV-related illness?
A 0% rating requires: Asymptomatic, following initial diagnosis of HIV infection, with or without lymphadenopathy or decreased T4 cell count. A 100% rating requires: AIDS with recurrent opportunistic infections (see Note 3) or with secondary diseases afflicting multiple body systems; HIV-related illness with debility and progressive weight loss. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can HIV-related illness qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for HIV-related illness 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 HIV-related illness?
Service connection for HIV-related illness 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 HIV-related illness?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for HIV-related illness 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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