VA Disability Rating for Tuberculous Laryngitis (DC 6515)
Diagnostic Code 6515 · 38 CFR §4.97
What Is It?
Tuberculous laryngitis is inflammation of the larynx (voice box) caused by tuberculosis infection. It occurs when tuberculosis bacteria spread from the lungs to the larynx, causing hoarseness, pain with swallowing, coughing, and difficulty breathing. This condition was historically more common but can still occur in veterans who contracted tuberculosis during deployments to areas where the disease is prevalent. Even after successful treatment, permanent laryngeal damage can remain.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Active disease with systemic symptoms, or FEV-1 less than 40 percent of predicted, or permanent tracheostomy required. |
| 60% | FEV-1 of 40 to 55 percent of predicted, or FEV-1/FVC of 40 to 55 percent, or significant residual airway restriction. |
| 30% | FEV-1 of 56 to 70 percent of predicted, or residual hoarseness with documented laryngeal damage. |
| 10% | FEV-1 of 71 to 80 percent of predicted, or mild residual voice changes after treatment. |
Evidence Needed
- Records confirming tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment during or after service
- Laryngoscopy showing laryngeal damage from tuberculosis
- Pulmonary function test results
- Service records showing deployment to tuberculosis-endemic areas
- Treatment records for the TB infection including medication duration
C&P Exam Tips
- Bring your complete tuberculosis treatment history
- Get both a laryngoscopy and pulmonary function tests to document residual damage
- Describe voice changes, breathing difficulty, and swallowing problems
- Document any ongoing symptoms even if the TB infection itself was cured
How to File
File on VA Form 21-526EZ with TB diagnosis records, laryngoscopy results, PFT results, and deployment records to TB-endemic areas.
Common Mistakes
Only claiming the lung TB and ignoring laryngeal damage If TB affected your larynx, claim both the pulmonary and laryngeal conditions separately. Not getting a laryngoscopy Residual scarring and damage to the larynx must be documented by direct visualization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be rated even if the TB is cured?
Yes. The rating is based on residual damage to the larynx, not whether the infection is still active. Permanent scarring and airway changes are ratable.
Is this condition common among veterans?
It is uncommon but does occur, particularly among veterans who served in areas with high tuberculosis rates such as parts of Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe.