Chronic Laryngotracheal Stenosis

DC 6520Respiratory38 CFR 4.97, DC 6520

A narrowing of the airway at the level of the voice box (larynx) and windpipe (trachea), often caused by prolonged intubation, trauma, or prior surgery. This makes it harder to breathe and can affect your voice. The VA rates laryngotracheal stenosis based on lung function tests.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 6520

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.97, DC 6520. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have laryngotracheal stenosis with FEV-1 less than 40 percent predicted, or FEV-1/FVC less than 40 percent, or DLCO (SB) less than 40 percent predicted, or you require supplemental oxygen, or you have cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension.

What the VA looks for

FEV-1 less than 40% predicted
Outpatient oxygen therapy prescribed
Critical airway stenosis requiring tracheostomy
Episodes of respiratory failure
Cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting both PFTs and direct visualization (laryngoscopy or CT) — PFTs show the functional impact while imaging documents the structural narrowing. Both are needed for a strong claim.
⚠Not documenting the cause of the stenosis — if it resulted from military intubation, combat injury, or chemical exposure, the service connection evidence must be clear.
⚠Not reporting voice changes — laryngotracheal stenosis often affects the voice, and hoarseness or voice changes may support an additional rating under a separate code.
⚠Not documenting exercise intolerance and breathing difficulty — describe how the stenosis limits your ability to exercise, climb stairs, and perform physical work.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Respiratory Conditions (other than Tuberculosis and Sleep Apnea)

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

Chronic Laryngotracheal Stenosis

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6520

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

FEV-1 less than 40% predicted
Outpatient oxygen therapy prescribed
Critical airway stenosis requiring tracheostomy
Episodes of respiratory failure
Cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting both PFTs and direct visualization (laryngoscopy or CT) — PFTs show the functional impact while imaging documents the structural narrowing. Both are needed for a strong claim.

⚠Not documenting the cause of the stenosis — if it resulted from military intubation, combat injury, or chemical exposure, the service connection evidence must be clear.

⚠Not reporting voice changes — laryngotracheal stenosis often affects the voice, and hoarseness or voice changes may support an additional rating under a separate code.

⚠Not documenting exercise intolerance and breathing difficulty — describe how the stenosis limits your ability to exercise, climb stairs, and perform physical work.