Diagnostic Code 6513 · 38 CFR §4.97
Chronic maxillary sinusitis is persistent inflammation and infection of the maxillary sinuses, the largest sinuses located in the cheekbones on either side of the nose. This is the most commonly affected sinus and the most frequently claimed sinusitis condition among veterans. Symptoms include cheek pain and pressure, tooth pain in the upper jaw, nasal congestion, post-nasal drip, and foul-smelling discharge. Veterans frequently develop this condition from recurrent infections during deployment, environmental dust and sand exposure, or dental problems during service.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 50% | |
| 30% | |
| 10% | |
| 0% |
CT scan showing chronic maxillary sinusitis with mucosal thickening or opacification, Treatment records with antibiotic prescriptions, dates, and durations, ENT specialist evaluation documenting chronicity and severity, Detailed episode log with dates, symptoms, and treatment for each occurrence, Service medical records showing sinus problems or environmental exposure, Dental records if dental issues contributed to the maxillary sinus disease