Granulomatous rhinitis — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 6524)

The VA rates Granulomatous rhinitis under Diagnostic Code 6524 at the following tiers: 20%, 100%. The minimum 20% rating requires: Other types of granulomatous infection. The maximum 100% rating requires: Wegener's granulomatosis, lethal midline granuloma.

Diagnostic Code 6524 is the VA rating identifier for Granulomatous rhinitis 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 Granulomatous rhinitis under DC 6524 is 100%. This tier requires: Wegener's granulomatosis, lethal midline granuloma. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Granulomatous rhinitis alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Granulomatous rhinitis is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6524. 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 Granulomatous rhinitis 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 Granulomatous rhinitis 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.