Desquamative interstitial pneumonitis — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 6826)

The VA rates Desquamative interstitial pneumonitis under Diagnostic Code 6826 at the following tiers: 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.

Diagnostic Code 6826 is the VA rating identifier for Desquamative interstitial pneumonitis within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97. 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 Desquamative interstitial pneumonitis under DC 6826 is 100%. This tier requires: Active infection with systemic symptoms such as fever, night sweats, weight loss, or hemoptysis. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Desquamative interstitial pneumonitis alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Desquamative interstitial pneumonitis is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6826. 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 Desquamative interstitial pneumonitis 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 Desquamative interstitial pneumonitis 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.