Diagnostic Code 6601 · 38 CFR §4.97
Bronchiectasis is a chronic condition where the airways (bronchi) become permanently widened and damaged, losing their ability to clear mucus effectively. This leads to repeated lung infections, chronic cough with large amounts of mucus, and progressive breathing difficulty. Veterans may develop bronchiectasis from severe pneumonia during service, toxic inhalation injuries, tuberculosis, or chronic lung infections that began in the military. Burn pit exposure and other environmental hazards can also contribute to this condition.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | |
| 60% | |
| 30% | |
| 10% |
CT scan of the chest showing bronchiectasis (widened, damaged airways), Pulmonary function test results with FEV-1, FVC, and DLCO, Sputum culture results, Treatment records showing antibiotic prescriptions with frequency and duration, Records of hospitalizations for lung infections, Service medical records or nexus letter linking the condition to service exposures or infections