Systemic Fungal Infection

DC 6320Infectious Diseases38 CFR 4.88b, DC 6320

A serious fungal infection that spreads through your body, such as coccidioidomycosis (valley fever), histoplasmosis, or blastomycosis. The VA rates systemic fungal infections based on active disease or residual organ damage.

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 6320

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.88b, DC 6320. 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, disseminated systemic fungal disease that is not responding to treatment. You are unable to care for yourself or work.

What the VA looks for

Active disseminated fungal disease on cultures or biopsy
Refractory to antifungal treatment
Near-constant debilitating symptoms
Unable to maintain employment
Multiple organ system involvement

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not identifying the specific fungal species — coccidioidomycosis (valley fever) is common in the Southwest US where many bases are located; histoplasmosis in the Ohio/Mississippi River valleys.
⚠Failing to document geographic service in endemic areas — training at bases like Fort Irwin, Fort Huachuca, or Luke AFB supports coccidioidomycosis exposure.
⚠Not getting follow-up lung imaging after treatment — residual cavities, nodules, and fibrosis are compensable even after the infection resolves.
⚠Not claiming pulmonary residuals separately — reduced lung function from fungal lung damage is rated under the respiratory diagnostic codes.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Infectious Diseases
DBQ Respiratory Conditions

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

Condition Rating Guides

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

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6320

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have active, disseminated systemic fungal disease that is not responding to treatment. You are unable to care for yourself or work.

What the VA looks for

Active disseminated fungal disease on cultures or biopsy
Refractory to antifungal treatment
Near-constant debilitating symptoms
Unable to maintain employment
Multiple organ system involvement

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not identifying the specific fungal species — coccidioidomycosis (valley fever) is common in the Southwest US where many bases are located; histoplasmosis in the Ohio/Mississippi River valleys.

⚠Failing to document geographic service in endemic areas — training at bases like Fort Irwin, Fort Huachuca, or Luke AFB supports coccidioidomycosis exposure.

⚠Not getting follow-up lung imaging after treatment — residual cavities, nodules, and fibrosis are compensable even after the infection resolves.

⚠Not claiming pulmonary residuals separately — reduced lung function from fungal lung damage is rated under the respiratory diagnostic codes.