Asbestosis
Asbestosis is rated under DC 6833 as part of the interstitial lung disease schedule. Ratings are based on FVC (not FEV-1), DLCO, exercise testing, and cardiac involvement. The interstitial lung schedule uses slightly different PFT thresholds than the general schedule. Asbestosis is excluded from the burn pit presumptive list since it has its own specific exposure criteria.
VA Rating Levels
FVC of 75-80%, or DLCO (SB) of 66-80%.
FVC of 65-74%, or DLCO (SB) of 56-65%.
FVC of 50-64%, or DLCO (SB) of 40-55%, or maximum exercise testing of 15-20 ml/kg/min.
FVC less than 50%, or DLCO (SB) less than 40%, or maximum exercise testing less than 15 ml/kg/min, or cor pulmonale (right-sided heart failure), or pulmonary hypertension, or requires home oxygen therapy.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Asbestosis uses FVC (not FEV-1) for the lung function measurement, and the thresholds are slightly different from the general respiratory schedule. Make sure you understand which test applies.
- →If you served in the Navy, worked in shipyards, or were in construction or demolition roles, you may have had significant asbestos exposure. Document your service duties in detail.
- →The DLCO test is especially important for interstitial lung diseases like asbestosis. It measures how well your lungs absorb gas, which can be impaired even when other lung tests seem relatively normal.
- →If your condition has progressed to cause pulmonary hypertension or right-sided heart failure, that supports a 100% rating.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.97, DC 6833