Spinal cord injury with respiratory insufficiency
Spinal cord injury with respiratory insufficiency is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6841, from 0% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: Chronic pulmonary mycosis with persistent fever, weight loss, night sweats, or massive hemoptysis. Most claims establish the 0% or 30% rating before reaching the top tier.
What are the VA rating criteria for Spinal cord injury with respiratory insufficiency?
Healed and inactive mycotic lesions, asymptomatic
Note: Via General Rating Formula for Mycotic Lung Disease (diagnostic codes 6834 through 6839):
Chronic pulmonary mycosis with minimal symptoms such as occasional minor hemoptysis or productive cough
Note: Via General Rating Formula for Mycotic Lung Disease (diagnostic codes 6834 through 6839):
Chronic pulmonary mycosis requiring suppressive therapy with no more than minimal symptoms such as occasional minor hemoptysis or productive cough
Note: Via General Rating Formula for Mycotic Lung Disease (diagnostic codes 6834 through 6839):
Chronic pulmonary mycosis with persistent fever, weight loss, night sweats, or massive hemoptysis
Note: Via General Rating Formula for Mycotic Lung Disease (diagnostic codes 6834 through 6839):
“Chronic pulmonary mycosis requiring suppressive therapy with no more than minimal symptoms such as occasional minor hemoptysis or productive cough”
Common Questions About Spinal cord injury with respiratory insufficiency VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Spinal cord injury with respiratory insufficiency?
The VA rates Spinal cord injury with respiratory insufficiency under Diagnostic Code 6841 at 0%, 30%, 50%, 100%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Healed and inactive mycotic lesions, asymptomatic. The maximum 100% rating requires: Chronic pulmonary mycosis with persistent fever, weight loss, night sweats, or massive hemoptysis.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Spinal cord injury with respiratory insufficiency?
The VA rates Spinal cord injury with respiratory insufficiency under Diagnostic Code (DC) 6841, 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 Spinal cord injury with respiratory insufficiency?
A 0% rating requires: Healed and inactive mycotic lesions, asymptomatic. A 100% rating requires: Chronic pulmonary mycosis with persistent fever, weight loss, night sweats, or massive hemoptysis. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Spinal cord injury with respiratory insufficiency qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Spinal cord injury with respiratory insufficiency 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 Spinal cord injury with respiratory insufficiency?
Service connection for Spinal cord injury with respiratory insufficiency 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 Spinal cord injury with respiratory insufficiency?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Spinal cord injury with respiratory insufficiency 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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