Bones and joints, tuberculosis of, active or inactive — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 5001)

The VA rates Bones and joints, tuberculosis of, active or inactive under Diagnostic Code 5001 at the following tiers: 100%. The minimum 100% rating requires: Active. The maximum 100% rating requires: Active.

Diagnostic Code 5001 is the VA rating identifier for Bones and joints, tuberculosis of, active or inactive within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Bones and joints, tuberculosis of, active or inactive under DC 5001 is 100%. This tier requires: Active. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Bones and joints, tuberculosis of, active or inactive alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Bones and joints, tuberculosis of, active or inactive is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5001. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Bones and joints, tuberculosis of, active or inactive may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Bones and joints, tuberculosis of, active or inactive requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.