VA Disability Rating for Campylobacter Jejuni Infection (DC 6330)

Diagnostic Code 6330 · 38 CFR §4.88b

What Is It?

Campylobacter jejuni is one of the most common bacterial causes of food poisoning. Veterans frequently encounter it during deployments. The VA uses the General Rating Formula. Campylobacter is a well-known trigger for Guillain-Barre syndrome, reactive arthritis, and uveitis. These residual conditions are rated under appropriate body system codes.

Rating Criteria

Evidence Needed

Stool culture confirming Campylobacter jejuni. Deployment records. Treatment records. Medical records of post-infectious complications. Nexus letter linking residuals to the infection.

C&P Exam Tips

Document the acute episode with dates and severity. Describe the likely food or water source. Report ongoing digestive symptoms. If you developed numbness, weakness, or joint pain afterward, describe the timeline.

How to File

File under DC 6330 for the acute infection. File Guillain-Barre syndrome, reactive arthritis, and uveitis as separate claims linked to the Campylobacter infection.

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes include not connecting Guillain-Barre syndrome to the Campylobacter infection, failing to claim post-infectious IBS separately, not preserving stool culture results, and overlooking reactive arthritis developing weeks later.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does food poisoning lead to nerve damage?

Campylobacter bacteria have surface molecules resembling nerve tissue. The immune response can cross-react with nerves, causing Guillain-Barre syndrome 1-3 weeks after the GI infection.

Can I get service-connected for IBS from a deployment stomach bug?

Yes. Post-infectious IBS is recognized with strong research support linking it to bacterial gastroenteritis.