Nontuberculous Mycobacterial (NTM) Infection

DC 6731Infectious Diseases38 CFR 4.97, DC 6731

A lung infection caused by mycobacteria other than tuberculosis. NTM infections are hard to treat and can cause chronic cough, fatigue, and permanent lung damage. The VA rates NTM infection on active disease or residual lung function.

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 6731

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.97, DC 6731. 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 or residual NTM lung disease with very severe lung damage. You may require supplemental oxygen and cannot work.

What the VA looks for

FEV-1 less than 40% predicted
Requires supplemental oxygen
Active NTM disease refractory to treatment
Cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension
Unable to maintain employment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting the NTM species identified in sputum cultures — treatment and prognosis vary by species (MAC, M. abscessus, M. kansasii), and species identification strengthens your claim.
⚠Failing to get pulmonary function tests before and after treatment — PFT results are the primary evidence for rating residual lung damage.
⚠Not understanding the long treatment timeline — NTM treatment takes 12-18 months or longer, and documenting the full treatment course supports your claim.
⚠Not claiming bronchiectasis separately — permanent airway damage from NTM infection can be rated under the respiratory diagnostic codes independently.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Infectious Diseases

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6731

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have active or residual NTM lung disease with very severe lung damage. You may require supplemental oxygen and cannot work.

What the VA looks for

FEV-1 less than 40% predicted
Requires supplemental oxygen
Active NTM disease refractory to treatment
Cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension
Unable to maintain employment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting the NTM species identified in sputum cultures — treatment and prognosis vary by species (MAC, M. abscessus, M. kansasii), and species identification strengthens your claim.

⚠Failing to get pulmonary function tests before and after treatment — PFT results are the primary evidence for rating residual lung damage.

⚠Not understanding the long treatment timeline — NTM treatment takes 12-18 months or longer, and documenting the full treatment course supports your claim.

⚠Not claiming bronchiectasis separately — permanent airway damage from NTM infection can be rated under the respiratory diagnostic codes independently.