Lung Cancer Residuals

DC 6819Respiratory38 CFR 4.97, DC 6819

Lasting effects after lung cancer treatment. The VA gives a mandatory 100% rating during active cancer or treatment. After treatment ends, the 100% rating continues for 6 months, then the VA rates you based on how well your lungs work using breathing tests (FVC and DLCO).

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type and intensity of treatment you require. Higher ratings correspond to more aggressive treatment regimens, such as daily medication, insulin dependence, or the need for ongoing medical management.

Diagnostic code

DC 6819

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.97, DC 6819. 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 active lung cancer or are currently receiving treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation). This 100% rating is mandatory during active disease and continues for 6 months after your last treatment ends.

What the VA looks for

Lung cancer diagnosis confirmed by biopsy or pathology
Active treatment records (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation)
Oncology treatment plan documenting ongoing care
Date of last treatment for 6-month continuation tracking

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not knowing about the mandatory 100% rating during treatment — if you have active lung cancer or are in treatment, you are entitled to 100% for the duration of treatment and 6 months after your last treatment ends. File immediately upon diagnosis.
⚠Missing the post-treatment re-evaluation — the VA will schedule a mandatory exam 6 months after treatment ends. Prepare by getting pulmonary function tests beforehand so you know your baseline. If the VA does not schedule this exam, request it yourself.
⚠Not connecting lung cancer to in-service exposures — burn pits (PACT Act), Agent Orange, asbestos, radiation, and other toxic exposures are common causes. The PACT Act expanded presumptive coverage for many toxic exposure cancers.
⚠Not filing for all residuals separately — lung surgery can cause chronic pain, reduced lung capacity, neuropathy from chemotherapy, depression, anxiety, and fatigue. File for each residual as a separate condition.
⚠Not getting both FVC and DLCO tested — after surgery that removes part of your lung, both tests may show different levels of impairment. The VA uses whichever gives the higher rating.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Respiratory Conditions (other than Tuberculosis and Sleep Apnea)

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Lung Cancer Residuals or rated under the same body system.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

DC 6847·Respiratory

Bronchial Asthma

DC 6602·Respiratory

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

DC 6604·Respiratory

Allergic Rhinitis

DC 6522·Respiratory

Chronic Sinusitis

DC 6510·Respiratory

Pulmonary Embolism (Residuals)

DC 6817·Respiratory

Sarcoidosis

DC 6846·Respiratory

Bronchiectasis

DC 6601·Respiratory

Condition Rating Guides

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

Lung Cancer Residuals

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6819

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Lung cancer diagnosis confirmed by biopsy or pathology
Active treatment records (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation)
Oncology treatment plan documenting ongoing care
Date of last treatment for 6-month continuation tracking

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not knowing about the mandatory 100% rating during treatment — if you have active lung cancer or are in treatment, you are entitled to 100% for the duration of treatment and 6 months after your last treatment ends. File immediately upon diagnosis.

⚠Missing the post-treatment re-evaluation — the VA will schedule a mandatory exam 6 months after treatment ends. Prepare by getting pulmonary function tests beforehand so you know your baseline. If the VA does not schedule this exam, request it yourself.

⚠Not connecting lung cancer to in-service exposures — burn pits (PACT Act), Agent Orange, asbestos, radiation, and other toxic exposures are common causes. The PACT Act expanded presumptive coverage for many toxic exposure cancers.

⚠Not filing for all residuals separately — lung surgery can cause chronic pain, reduced lung capacity, neuropathy from chemotherapy, depression, anxiety, and fatigue. File for each residual as a separate condition.

⚠Not getting both FVC and DLCO tested — after surgery that removes part of your lung, both tests may show different levels of impairment. The VA uses whichever gives the higher rating.