Pneumoconiosis (silicosis, anthracosis, etc.) — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 6832)

The VA rates Pneumoconiosis (silicosis, anthracosis, etc.) under Diagnostic Code 6832 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 6832 is the VA rating identifier for Pneumoconiosis (silicosis, anthracosis, etc.) 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 Pneumoconiosis (silicosis, anthracosis, etc.) under DC 6832 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 Pneumoconiosis (silicosis, anthracosis, etc.) alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Pneumoconiosis (silicosis, anthracosis, etc.) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6832. 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 Pneumoconiosis (silicosis, anthracosis, etc.) may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

The key evidence for Pneumoconiosis (silicosis, anthracosis, etc.) depends on the body system. For respiratory conditions, pulmonary function test (PFT) results — specifically FEV-1, FVC, and DLCO values — directly determine the rating tier. Test during symptomatic periods when possible. A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional is essential for contested claims.

Yes — a 100% rating for Pneumoconiosis (silicosis, anthracosis, etc.) alone meets the single-disability TDIU threshold under 38 CFR § 4.16(a). If the condition prevents substantially gainful employment, compensation is paid at the 100% rate.