VA Disability Rating for Tuberculous Peritonitis (DC 7331)
Diagnostic Code 7331 · 38 CFR §4.114
What Is It?
Tuberculous peritonitis is a form of tuberculosis that infects the peritoneum — the membrane lining the abdominal cavity and covering the organs inside it. This causes abdominal pain and swelling, fever, weight loss, and fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites). Veterans may have been exposed to TB during service in areas with high TB prevalence or in close-quarters environments like barracks, ships, or confined operational spaces. While active TB peritonitis can be treated with antibiotics, some veterans experience lasting abdominal complications including adhesions and chronic pain.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Active tuberculous peritonitis with ongoing infection requiring treatment. This rating applies during the active disease phase. |
| 30% | Residual effects of treated tuberculous peritonitis including chronic abdominal pain from adhesions, recurrent fluid accumulation, and ongoing digestive problems that affect daily life. |
| 0% | Fully treated with no residual symptoms. Service connection is established for potential future complications. |
Evidence Needed
- TB testing results (skin test, blood test, or culture) confirming tuberculosis
- Peritoneal fluid analysis or biopsy confirming peritoneal involvement
- Imaging showing peritoneal thickening, fluid, or adhesions
- Treatment records for the full course of anti-tuberculosis medications
- Service records showing exposure risk (deployment location, ship duty, known TB contacts)
- Documentation of residual symptoms after treatment completion
C&P Exam Tips
- Describe where and when you believe you were exposed to TB during service
- Report all current abdominal symptoms including pain, swelling, and digestive problems
- Bring documentation showing your TB treatment history and whether it was completed successfully
- Describe any complications from the peritoneal infection such as adhesions or chronic fluid buildup
- Explain how residual symptoms affect your daily activities
- Report if you have had any follow-up procedures such as paracentesis for fluid drainage
How to File
File under DC 7331 for tuberculous peritonitis. Include TB test results, imaging of the abdomen, treatment records, and service records showing exposure risk. If still on active treatment, you may qualify for a 100% rating during the treatment period. After treatment, file for residual effects.
Common Mistakes
Not connecting to service exposure Not filing during active treatment Overlooking residual adhesions
Frequently Asked Questions
How common is tuberculous peritonitis in veterans?
It is relatively uncommon overall but occurs at higher rates among veterans who served in TB-endemic regions such as parts of Asia, Africa, and the Pacific Islands. It can also develop from reactivation of latent TB acquired years earlier during service.
Can I get rated for both lung TB and peritoneal TB?
Yes. If TB affected both your lungs and your peritoneum, each can be rated under its respective diagnostic code. The lung involvement would be rated under the respiratory codes, while the peritoneal involvement is rated under DC 7331.