VA Disability Rating for Beriberi (DC 6314)
Diagnostic Code 6314 · 38 CFR §4.88b
What Is It?
Beriberi is caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency. It has two forms: wet beriberi (cardiovascular) and dry beriberi (neurological). The VA recognizes beriberi as a presumptive condition for former POWs detained 30 or more days. After active disease resolves, residuals are rated under appropriate body system codes.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Congestive heart failure, anasarca (severe generalized swelling), or Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. |
| 60% | Cardiomegaly (enlarged heart), or peripheral neuropathy with footdrop or atrophy of thigh or calf muscles. |
| 30% | Peripheral neuropathy with absent knee or ankle jerks and loss of sensation, or symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, anorexia, dizziness, heaviness and stiffness of legs, headache, or sleep disturbance. |
Evidence Needed
Medical records confirming beriberi with thiamine levels. POW documentation if applicable. Echocardiogram for wet beriberi. Nerve conduction studies for dry beriberi. Documentation of functional limitations.
C&P Exam Tips
Specify wet beriberi, dry beriberi, or both. For wet: bring echocardiogram results. For dry: bring nerve conduction studies. POWs should have POW documentation ready.
How to File
File under DC 6314. POWs should note presumptive eligibility. After active disease, residuals are rated under appropriate body system codes.
Common Mistakes
Common mistakes include POWs not knowing about presumptive service connection, not claiming heart damage and neuropathy separately, filing only under nutritional code, and not getting cardiac and neurological testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is beriberi presumptive for POWs?
Yes, for former POWs detained 30 or more days.
What is the difference between wet and dry beriberi?
Wet beriberi damages the heart causing fluid retention and heart failure. Dry beriberi damages peripheral nerves causing numbness, weakness, and muscle wasting.