Laryngeal Papillomatosis Residuals

DC 6516Respiratory38 CFR 4.97, DC 6516

Recurring growths (papillomas) on the vocal cords caused by a virus. These growths cause hoarseness, voice changes, and in severe cases can block the airway. Many veterans need repeated surgeries to remove the growths. The VA rates this condition based on the severity of voice and breathing symptoms.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type, severity, and frequency of your symptoms. The examiner will evaluate your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 6516

Rating range

10% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.97, DC 6516. 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 severe laryngeal papillomatosis with near-complete voice loss, frequent surgeries, or airway compromise requiring intervention. You may have a tracheostomy.

What the VA looks for

Near-complete voice loss (aphonia)
Frequent surgical interventions
Airway compromise requiring emergency treatment
Tracheostomy placed or considered
Total occupational impairment from voice loss
Spread to trachea or bronchi documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting every surgical removal procedure — the frequency of recurrence and number of surgeries directly supports a higher rating. Keep records of every ENT visit and procedure.
⚠Not describing the impact of voice loss on employment — if your job requires speaking (phone calls, meetings, training), document exactly how the hoarseness prevents you from performing your duties.
⚠Not getting regular laryngoscopy to document recurrence — the VA needs objective evidence of recurring papillomas, not just a report of hoarseness. Ensure your ENT performs and documents regular scope exams.
⚠Not claiming airway compromise as a separate respiratory issue — if the papillomas cause breathing difficulty or require emergency airway management, this should be documented as a separate respiratory impairment.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Respiratory Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Laryngeal Papillomatosis Residuals

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type, severity, and frequency of your symptoms. The examiner will evaluate your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 6516

Rating range

10% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have severe laryngeal papillomatosis with near-complete voice loss, frequent surgeries, or airway compromise requiring intervention. You may have a tracheostomy.

What the VA looks for

Near-complete voice loss (aphonia)
Frequent surgical interventions
Airway compromise requiring emergency treatment
Tracheostomy placed or considered
Total occupational impairment from voice loss
Spread to trachea or bronchi documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting every surgical removal procedure — the frequency of recurrence and number of surgeries directly supports a higher rating. Keep records of every ENT visit and procedure.

⚠Not describing the impact of voice loss on employment — if your job requires speaking (phone calls, meetings, training), document exactly how the hoarseness prevents you from performing your duties.

⚠Not getting regular laryngoscopy to document recurrence — the VA needs objective evidence of recurring papillomas, not just a report of hoarseness. Ensure your ENT performs and documents regular scope exams.

⚠Not claiming airway compromise as a separate respiratory issue — if the papillomas cause breathing difficulty or require emergency airway management, this should be documented as a separate respiratory impairment.