Radiation-Induced Pulmonary Pneumonitis/Fibrosis — VA Disability Rating Criteria (DC 6830)
Diagnostic Code 6830 · 38 CFR §4.97
What Is It?
Radiation-induced pulmonary pneumonitis or fibrosis develops when radiation therapy damages lung tissue. This is relevant for veterans who received chest radiation to treat a service-connected cancer, or for atomic veterans exposed to ionizing radiation during nuclear testing or cleanup operations. The lung damage may appear weeks to months after exposure and can progress to permanent fibrosis.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Severe radiation pneumonitis or fibrosis causing respiratory failure, requiring continuous oxygen, or with cor pulmonale. |
| 60% | Significant radiation fibrosis with substantial PFT impairment and marked exercise limitation. |
| 30% | Moderate radiation-induced lung changes with measurable PFT reduction and some exertional dyspnea. |
| 10% | Mild radiation fibrosis on imaging with minimal PFT impairment and few symptoms. |
Evidence Needed
Records of radiation therapy or ionizing radiation exposure during service. Imaging showing radiation-pattern fibrosis. Current PFTs. Pulmonologist opinion linking lung changes to radiation exposure. For atomic veterans, documentation of participation in nuclear testing or cleanup.
C&P Exam Tips
Radiation fibrosis typically follows the radiation field—ensure imaging clearly shows the pattern. Get PFTs including DLCO. If you are an atomic veteran, bring your radiation dose records or participation documentation.
How to File
For radiation therapy side effects, file as secondary to the service-connected cancer that required treatment. For atomic veterans, file under the Ionizing Radiation presumptive provisions. Include radiation exposure documentation and current pulmonary testing.
Common Mistakes
Not filing as secondary to the cancer that required radiation. Failing to obtain atomic veteran status documentation. Not getting PFTs that specifically assess the affected lung zones. Missing the connection between old radiation and new respiratory symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
I had radiation for service-connected cancer—is my lung damage automatically covered?
Lung damage from radiation therapy for a service-connected cancer is generally service-connectable as a secondary condition. You still need to file a claim and provide evidence that the lung changes are due to the radiation rather than another cause.
What are atomic veteran presumptives?
Veterans who participated in nuclear weapons testing or cleanup of nuclear accidents may be eligible for presumptive service connection for certain radiation-related conditions. Respiratory effects of ionizing radiation exposure can be claimed under these provisions.