Sarcoidosis
Sarcoidosis is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6846, from 0% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: Cor pulmonale, or; cardiac involvement with congestive heart failure, or; progressive pulmonary disease with fever, night sweats, and weight loss despite treatment. Most claims establish the 0% or 30% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 6846 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 100%
- Rating tiers
- 4
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.97
- Body system
- Respiratory System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
Full schedular disability
0%, 30%, 60%, 100%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Sarcoidosis?
Chronic hilar adenopathy or stable lung infiltrates without symptoms or physiologic impairment
Pulmonary involvement with persistent symptoms requiring chronic low dose (maintenance) or intermittent corticosteroids
Pulmonary involvement requiring systemic high dose (therapeutic) corticosteroids for control
Cor pulmonale, or; cardiac involvement with congestive heart failure, or; progressive pulmonary disease with fever, night sweats, and weight loss despite treatment
“Pulmonary involvement requiring systemic high dose (therapeutic) corticosteroids for control”
Common Questions About Sarcoidosis VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Sarcoidosis?
The VA rates Sarcoidosis under Diagnostic Code 6846 at 0%, 30%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Chronic hilar adenopathy or stable lung infiltrates without symptoms or physiologic impairment. The maximum 100% rating requires: Cor pulmonale, or; cardiac involvement with congestive heart failure, or; progressive pulmonary disease with fever, night sweats, and weight loss despite treatment.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Sarcoidosis?
The VA rates Sarcoidosis under Diagnostic Code (DC) 6846, 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 0% and a 100% rating for Sarcoidosis?
A 0% rating requires: Chronic hilar adenopathy or stable lung infiltrates without symptoms or physiologic impairment. A 100% rating requires: Cor pulmonale, or; cardiac involvement with congestive heart failure, or; progressive pulmonary disease with fever, night sweats, and weight loss despite treatment. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Sarcoidosis qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Sarcoidosis 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 Sarcoidosis?
Service connection for Sarcoidosis 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 Sarcoidosis?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Sarcoidosis 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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