VA Disability Rating for Pulmonary Fibrosis (DC 6827)
Diagnostic Code 6827 · 38 CFR §4.97
What Is It?
Pulmonary fibrosis is scarring of the lung tissue that makes the lungs stiff and progressively harder to breathe with. As scar tissue replaces healthy lung tissue, the lungs lose their ability to transfer oxygen into the blood. This is a form of interstitial lung disease. Veterans are at elevated risk due to exposure to asbestos, silica dust, burn pit smoke, chemical agents, and other toxic substances during military service. The PACT Act has recognized many toxic exposures that can cause pulmonary fibrosis.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | FEV-1 less than 40 percent predicted, or DLCO less than 40 percent, or need for outpatient oxygen therapy, or cor pulmonale, or pulmonary hypertension. |
| 60% | FEV-1 of 40 to 55 percent predicted, or DLCO of 40 to 55 percent, or maximum oxygen consumption of 15 to 20 ml/kg/min. |
| 30% | FEV-1 of 56 to 70 percent predicted, or DLCO of 56 to 65 percent. |
| 10% | FEV-1 of 71 to 80 percent predicted, or DLCO of 66 to 80 percent. |
Evidence Needed
- High-resolution CT scan showing fibrotic changes (honeycombing, ground-glass opacities, traction bronchiectasis)
- Pulmonary function tests with DLCO measurement (especially important for fibrosis)
- Lung biopsy results if performed
- Pulmonology evaluation documenting the diagnosis and progression
- Service records documenting toxic exposures — asbestos, silica, burn pits, chemicals
- Deployment records and occupational exposure history
C&P Exam Tips
- DLCO is the most important PFT value for fibrosis — it directly measures the gas exchange that fibrosis impairs. Make sure it is tested.
- Bring your high-resolution CT scan showing the fibrotic pattern
- Document your military exposure history thoroughly: shipyard asbestos, desert dust, burn pits, chemical agents
- Describe the progressive nature of your symptoms — this condition typically gets worse over time
- If you use supplemental oxygen, this automatically supports 100 percent
How to File
File on VA Form 21-526EZ with HRCT imaging, PFT results (especially DLCO), and toxic exposure documentation. PACT Act claims may apply for burn pit or other toxic exposures.
Common Mistakes
Not getting DLCO testing DLCO is the single most important PFT value for pulmonary fibrosis. Spirometry alone may underestimate the severity. Not filing a PACT Act claim If your fibrosis is related to burn pit or toxic exposure, the PACT Act may give you presumptive service connection. Not documenting progressive decline Pulmonary fibrosis is typically progressive. Serial PFT results over time showing declining function strengthen your claim and support increased ratings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is pulmonary fibrosis covered under the PACT Act?
Many forms of pulmonary fibrosis related to toxic exposure during service are covered. The PACT Act expanded presumptive conditions for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other hazardous substances.
Can pulmonary fibrosis get worse over time?
Yes. Most forms of pulmonary fibrosis are progressive. You can file for increased ratings as your condition worsens, supported by declining PFT results.
Why is DLCO so important for this condition?
Pulmonary fibrosis specifically damages the membrane where oxygen transfers from air to blood. DLCO directly measures this gas exchange function and often shows more impairment than spirometry values alone.