VA Disability Rating for Sarcoidosis (DC 6846)
Diagnostic Code 6846 · 38 CFR §4.97
What Is It?
Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease where clusters of immune cells (granulomas) form in various organs, most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes. It can also affect the skin, eyes, liver, heart, and nervous system. The cause is unknown but may involve environmental triggers in genetically susceptible individuals. Veterans may develop sarcoidosis related to environmental exposures during service, and it is more common in certain demographic groups. Sarcoidosis can range from mild and self-resolving to chronic and debilitating.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Cor pulmonale, or cardiac involvement, or progressive pulmonary disease with fever, night sweats, and weight loss despite treatment. |
| 60% | Pulmonary involvement requiring systemic high-dose corticosteroids for control. |
| 30% | Pulmonary involvement with persistent symptoms requiring chronic low-dose maintenance or intermittent corticosteroid therapy. |
| 0% | Chronic hilar adenopathy or stable pulmonary infiltrates without symptoms or need for treatment. |
Evidence Needed
- Biopsy confirming granulomatous inflammation consistent with sarcoidosis
- Chest imaging (CT or X-ray) showing pulmonary involvement or lymph node enlargement
- Pulmonary function tests
- Blood tests including ACE level, calcium, and inflammatory markers
- Medication records showing corticosteroid or immunosuppressive treatment
- Records of involvement in other organ systems
- Service medical records or nexus letter
C&P Exam Tips
- Bring biopsy results confirming the diagnosis
- Document all organ systems affected — lungs, skin, eyes, liver, heart, nerves
- List all medications, especially corticosteroid dosages, as this directly affects the rating
- Describe systemic symptoms: fatigue, fever, night sweats, weight changes
- Get PFT results for the pulmonary component
How to File
File on VA Form 21-526EZ with biopsy results, imaging, treatment records, and medication history. Claim each affected organ system separately for the best combined rating.
Common Mistakes
Only claiming pulmonary involvement Sarcoidosis often affects multiple organs. Claim each separately: eyes, skin, heart, nerves, liver, lungs. Not documenting steroid use The rating criteria for sarcoidosis are based heavily on what level of corticosteroid treatment is required. Document every prescription. Assuming mild disease will stay mild Sarcoidosis can flare and progress. If your condition worsens, file for an increased rating with updated evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can each organ affected by sarcoidosis be rated separately?
Yes. Pulmonary sarcoidosis is rated under DC 6828, but eye, skin, cardiac, and neurological involvement can each be rated under their respective organ system codes.
What if sarcoidosis goes into remission?
If the disease becomes inactive and you no longer need treatment, a 0 percent rating may be assigned. However, if it flares again, you can file for an increase.
Is sarcoidosis related to military service?
The exact cause is unknown, but environmental triggers during military service may play a role. The VA evaluates each claim individually based on the evidence of service connection.