Mesothelioma Residuals

DC 6819Respiratory38 CFR 4.97, DC 6819

Cancer of the lining around the lungs caused by asbestos exposure. Many veterans were exposed to asbestos in ships, buildings, brakes, and insulation during service. The VA rates mesothelioma at 100% during active disease and treatment, then rates residuals based on lung function after treatment.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 6819

Rating range

30% – 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 mesothelioma, are undergoing treatment, or have post-treatment residuals with FEV-1 less than 40 percent predicted, supplemental oxygen requirement, or cor pulmonale.

What the VA looks for

Active mesothelioma or ongoing treatment
FEV-1 less than 40% predicted
DLCO less than 40% predicted
Supplemental oxygen required
Cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension
Post-surgical respiratory failure

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not filing immediately upon diagnosis — mesothelioma qualifies for automatic 100% rating during active disease and treatment. Do not wait until treatment ends to file.
⚠Not documenting military asbestos exposure — Navy shipyard workers, construction personnel, mechanics, and boiler technicians had the highest exposure. Service records, buddy statements, and military occupation specialty (MOS) documentation all support the claim.
⚠Not claiming separate ratings for post-surgical residuals — chest wall pain from thoracotomy, restrictive lung disease from pleurectomy, and neuropathy from chemotherapy can each be rated separately.
⚠Not applying for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) — mesothelioma with severe respiratory impairment may qualify for SMC based on the need for regular aid and attendance.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Respiratory Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Mesothelioma Residuals

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6819

Rating range

30% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have active mesothelioma, are undergoing treatment, or have post-treatment residuals with FEV-1 less than 40 percent predicted, supplemental oxygen requirement, or cor pulmonale.

What the VA looks for

Active mesothelioma or ongoing treatment
FEV-1 less than 40% predicted
DLCO less than 40% predicted
Supplemental oxygen required
Cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension
Post-surgical respiratory failure

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not filing immediately upon diagnosis — mesothelioma qualifies for automatic 100% rating during active disease and treatment. Do not wait until treatment ends to file.

⚠Not documenting military asbestos exposure — Navy shipyard workers, construction personnel, mechanics, and boiler technicians had the highest exposure. Service records, buddy statements, and military occupation specialty (MOS) documentation all support the claim.

⚠Not claiming separate ratings for post-surgical residuals — chest wall pain from thoracotomy, restrictive lung disease from pleurectomy, and neuropathy from chemotherapy can each be rated separately.

⚠Not applying for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) — mesothelioma with severe respiratory impairment may qualify for SMC based on the need for regular aid and attendance.