Tuberculosis, Pulmonary (Active)

DC 6731Infectious Diseases38 CFR 4.97, DC 6731

An active bacterial infection in your lungs. While you have active tuberculosis that is being treated, the VA gives a 100% rating. After treatment ends, your rating changes based on how well your lungs work.

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 6731

Rating range

100% – 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 pulmonary tuberculosis confirmed by testing. You are receiving treatment. The VA rates active TB at 100% for the duration of active disease.

What the VA looks for

Positive sputum culture for Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Active disease on chest imaging (X-ray or CT)
Current anti-tuberculosis medication regimen
Documentation of active disease status by treating physician

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding the graduated rating schedule — after active TB is stabilized, the VA reduces the rating on a set schedule (100% for 2 years after inactivity, then rated on residuals). Know the timeline so you can prepare for the reduction.
⚠Failing to document all lung damage caused by TB — scarring, reduced lung capacity, and breathing problems should be captured on pulmonary function tests (PFTs) before your rating is reduced.
⚠Not filing secondary claims for conditions caused by TB treatment, such as liver damage from isoniazid, hearing loss from streptomycin, or peripheral neuropathy.
⚠Not attending follow-up exams — the VA uses these to determine when active disease has stopped, which triggers the reduction schedule.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Respiratory Conditions — Tuberculosis

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 6731

Rating range

100% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have active pulmonary tuberculosis confirmed by testing. You are receiving treatment. The VA rates active TB at 100% for the duration of active disease.

What the VA looks for

Positive sputum culture for Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Active disease on chest imaging (X-ray or CT)
Current anti-tuberculosis medication regimen
Documentation of active disease status by treating physician

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding the graduated rating schedule — after active TB is stabilized, the VA reduces the rating on a set schedule (100% for 2 years after inactivity, then rated on residuals). Know the timeline so you can prepare for the reduction.

⚠Failing to document all lung damage caused by TB — scarring, reduced lung capacity, and breathing problems should be captured on pulmonary function tests (PFTs) before your rating is reduced.

⚠Not filing secondary claims for conditions caused by TB treatment, such as liver damage from isoniazid, hearing loss from streptomycin, or peripheral neuropathy.

⚠Not attending follow-up exams — the VA uses these to determine when active disease has stopped, which triggers the reduction schedule.