Sarcoidosis (Pulmonary)
Pulmonary sarcoidosis is rated under DC 6846. Ratings can be based on either the general PFT schedule or the condition-specific criteria, whichever gives the higher evaluation. This condition causes lumps (granulomas) to form on the tissues surrounding the air sacs, bronchi, and small blood vessels in the lungs. It is a presumptive condition if diagnosed within one year of separation or for veterans exposed to burn pits.
VA Rating Levels
Chronic hilar adenopathy or stable lung infiltrates without symptoms or physiologic impairment.
Pulmonary involvement with persistent symptoms requiring chronic low-dose (maintenance) or intermittent corticosteroids.
Pulmonary involvement requiring systemic high-dose (therapeutic) corticosteroids for control.
Cor pulmonale (right-sided heart failure), cardiac involvement with congestive heart failure, or progressive pulmonary disease with fever, night sweats, and weight loss despite treatment.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →If you need corticosteroids to manage your sarcoidosis, the dose level directly affects your rating. Low-dose maintenance steroids support 30%, while high-dose therapeutic steroids support 60%.
- →This can also be rated under the general PFT schedule if those results give a higher evaluation. Make sure you have current pulmonary function tests on file.
- →Sarcoidosis is presumptive if diagnosed within one year of separation. If your symptoms started shortly after leaving service, document the timeline carefully.
- →If the condition progresses to involve the heart or causes systemic symptoms like fever, night sweats, and weight loss despite treatment, that supports a 100% rating.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.97, DC 6846