Tuberculosis, Pulmonary (Inactive)

DC 6731Infectious Diseases38 CFR 4.97, DC 6731

After active tuberculosis has been treated and is no longer active, the VA rates you based on lasting lung damage. Your rating depends on pulmonary function test results and any remaining symptoms.

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

Your tuberculosis is inactive but you have severe lasting lung damage. You cannot breathe well enough to do most activities.

What the VA looks for

FEV-1 less than 40% predicted
Requires outpatient oxygen therapy
Cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension
Episode(s) of acute respiratory failure
Severe lung scarring and destruction on imaging

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting pulmonary function tests (PFTs) before your rating reduction — the VA will rate inactive TB on lung residuals, and PFT results are the primary evidence.
⚠Forgetting that the 2-year graduated rating schedule starts from the date of inactivity, not from the date of the original claim — know your timeline.
⚠Not claiming secondary conditions from TB or its treatment (hearing loss, liver damage, neuropathy) before the reduction takes effect.
⚠Assuming that because your TB is "cured" you have no claim — lasting lung scarring and reduced capacity are compensable residuals.

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

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your tuberculosis is inactive but you have severe lasting lung damage. You cannot breathe well enough to do most activities.

What the VA looks for

FEV-1 less than 40% predicted
Requires outpatient oxygen therapy
Cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension
Episode(s) of acute respiratory failure
Severe lung scarring and destruction on imaging

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting pulmonary function tests (PFTs) before your rating reduction — the VA will rate inactive TB on lung residuals, and PFT results are the primary evidence.

⚠Forgetting that the 2-year graduated rating schedule starts from the date of inactivity, not from the date of the original claim — know your timeline.

⚠Not claiming secondary conditions from TB or its treatment (hearing loss, liver damage, neuropathy) before the reduction takes effect.

⚠Assuming that because your TB is "cured" you have no claim — lasting lung scarring and reduced capacity are compensable residuals.