Diagnostic Code 6823 · 38 CFR §4.97
Nocardiosis is an infection caused by Nocardia bacteria found in soil and water. Pulmonary nocardiosis primarily affects the lungs and can cause pneumonia, lung abscesses, and chronic respiratory impairment. It is more common in immunocompromised individuals. Veterans may develop nocardiosis from environmental exposures during service, particularly in tropical or subtropical deployments.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Infection resolved with no measurable residual lung impairment. |
| 30% | Residual pulmonary scarring or mild PFT impairment following treatment. Occasional respiratory symptoms. |
| 50% | Moderate to severe residual lung damage with significantly reduced PFT values. May require ongoing or repeated antibiotic therapy. |
| 100% | Disseminated nocardiosis or severe pulmonary destruction causing chronic respiratory failure. |
Culture or biopsy confirming Nocardia infection. Service records showing environmental exposure opportunities. Imaging documenting pulmonary involvement. Current PFTs showing residual impairment. Treatment records.
Veterans exposed to soil and dust in tropical or subtropical environments may inhale Nocardia organisms. Those with immunosuppression from other service-connected conditions are at higher risk. The connection between deployment location and exposure is key for service connection.
Yes, relapses are common even after prolonged antibiotic therapy. Document every recurrence as it supports a higher disability rating and ongoing service connection.