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Evidence checklist

Chronic Bronchitis

DC 660038 CFR § 4.97Respiratory

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 3 collected
Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) with FEV-1 pre/post bronchodilatorCritical

Spirometry results showing FEV-1 values before and after bronchodilator use. The VA rates restrictive lung disease based on FEV-1, FEV-1/FVC ratio, and DLCO.

Private provider · independent opinion
DLCO (diffusing capacity) testingCritical

Diffusion capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide, used to assess gas exchange impairment and determine rating level.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking bronchitis to service ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion stating it is "at least as likely as not" that your chronic bronchitis is connected to in-service exposures (burn pits, chemicals, smoking) or events.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 2 collected
Chest imaging (X-ray or CT)

Chest X-ray or CT scan documenting bronchial wall thickening, hyperinflation, or other findings consistent with chronic bronchitis.

VA or private records · written request
Ongoing treatment records (inhalers, medications, pulmonary rehab)

Records showing current treatment regimen including bronchodilators, corticosteroids, antibiotics for exacerbations, and pulmonary rehabilitation.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 1 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Respiratory ConditionsCritical

Standardized form capturing PFT results, treatment requirements, and functional impact of respiratory disease.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

Service records

0 of 2 collected
Documentation of in-service toxic exposure (burn pits, chemicals)

Service records, deployment orders, or PACT Act toxic exposure registry enrollment documenting exposure to burn pits, industrial chemicals, or other respiratory hazards.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180
Condition guideRating criteria and what VA looks forBuddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

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