Neoplasms, malignant, any specified part of respiratory system exclusive of skin growths — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 6819)

The VA rates Neoplasms, malignant, any specified part of respiratory system exclusive of skin growths under Diagnostic Code 6819 at the following tiers: 100%. The minimum 100% rating requires: Neoplasms, malignant, any specified part of respiratory system exclusive of skin growths. The maximum 100% rating requires: Neoplasms, malignant, any specified part of respiratory system exclusive of skin growths.

Diagnostic Code 6819 is the VA rating identifier for Neoplasms, malignant, any specified part of respiratory system exclusive of skin growths 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 Neoplasms, malignant, any specified part of respiratory system exclusive of skin growths under DC 6819 is 100%. This tier requires: Neoplasms, malignant, any specified part of respiratory system exclusive of skin growths. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Neoplasms, malignant, any specified part of respiratory system exclusive of skin growths alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Neoplasms, malignant, any specified part of respiratory system exclusive of skin growths is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6819. 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 Neoplasms, malignant, any specified part of respiratory system exclusive of skin growths 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 Neoplasms, malignant, any specified part of respiratory system exclusive of skin growths 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.