Silicosis

DC 6832Respiratory38 CFR 4.97, DC 6832

A lung disease caused by inhaling fine silica dust, common in veterans who worked in construction, demolition, sandblasting, or mining during service. Silica particles scar the lung tissue, progressively reducing lung function. The VA rates silicosis 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 6832

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.97, DC 6832. 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

Your lung function tests show FVC of less than 50 percent predicted, or DLCO (SB) of less than 40 percent predicted, or you require outpatient oxygen therapy, or you have cor pulmonale.

What the VA looks for

FVC less than 50% predicted
DLCO less than 40% predicted
Outpatient oxygen therapy prescribed
Cor pulmonale or right heart failure documented
Progressive massive fibrosis confirmed on imaging

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting specific silica exposure during service — detail the tasks (sandblasting, demolition, tunneling) and the lack of respiratory protective equipment.
⚠Not getting a high-resolution CT scan — standard chest X-rays may miss early silicotic nodules that are clearly visible on HRCT.
⚠Silicosis is progressive and can worsen years after exposure ends — file for increased rating claims as lung function declines over time, even decades after service.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — silicosis increases risk of tuberculosis, lung cancer, and autoimmune conditions that may warrant separate service connection.

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…

Silicosis

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6832

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your lung function tests show FVC of less than 50 percent predicted, or DLCO (SB) of less than 40 percent predicted, or you require outpatient oxygen therapy, or you have cor pulmonale.

What the VA looks for

FVC less than 50% predicted
DLCO less than 40% predicted
Outpatient oxygen therapy prescribed
Cor pulmonale or right heart failure documented
Progressive massive fibrosis confirmed on imaging

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting specific silica exposure during service — detail the tasks (sandblasting, demolition, tunneling) and the lack of respiratory protective equipment.

⚠Not getting a high-resolution CT scan — standard chest X-rays may miss early silicotic nodules that are clearly visible on HRCT.

⚠Silicosis is progressive and can worsen years after exposure ends — file for increased rating claims as lung function declines over time, even decades after service.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — silicosis increases risk of tuberculosis, lung cancer, and autoimmune conditions that may warrant separate service connection.