Pneumoconiosis (silicosis, anthracosis, etc.)

The VA rates Pneumoconiosis (silicosis, anthracosis, etc.) under Diagnostic Code 6832 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.

The VA rates Pneumoconiosis (silicosis, anthracosis, etc.) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 6832, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.

Yes — a 100% rating for Pneumoconiosis (silicosis, anthracosis, etc.) alone meets the single-disability threshold for TDIU (38 CFR § 4.16). If the condition prevents substantially gainful employment, the veteran is compensated at the 100% rate without a schedular 100% rating.

The key evidence for Pneumoconiosis (silicosis, anthracosis, etc.) is documentation of how the condition affects daily functioning. Treatment records showing worsening symptoms, functional limitations documented by your provider, and buddy statements describing observable impact on daily life all strengthen the claim. A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional linking the current severity to service is essential for contested claims.

The C&P examiner uses a Respiratory System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 6832 rating criteria. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) drive the rating. The examiner measures FEV-1, FVC, and DLCO. Test during symptomatic periods when possible — stable periods produce higher numbers that may underrate your condition.