Diagnostic Code 6832 · 38 CFR §4.97
Pneumoconiosis is a group of lung diseases caused by inhaling mineral dusts that scar the lungs. This includes silicosis (from silica/sand dust), coal workers pneumoconiosis (black lung), and other mineral dust diseases. Veterans may develop pneumoconiosis from sandstorm exposure in desert deployments, construction/demolition work, mining operations, sandblasting, or working with concrete and masonry during service.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Early pneumoconiosis with minimal PFT impairment but characteristic findings on imaging. Mild restrictive pattern developing. |
| 30% | Established pneumoconiosis with moderate PFT reduction. Visible nodular or fibrotic changes on imaging. Dyspnea with moderate activity. |
| 60% | Progressive massive fibrosis or advanced pneumoconiosis with significant PFT impairment and substantial exercise limitation. |
| 100% | End-stage pneumoconiosis with severe respiratory failure, cor pulmonale, or requiring continuous oxygen therapy. |
Occupational exposure history documenting dust exposure during service (MOS, duty stations, specific tasks). Chest imaging showing characteristic findings (nodules, fibrosis). Current PFTs. Pulmonologist diagnosis specifying type of pneumoconiosis. B-reader interpretation of chest X-ray if available.
Yes. Veterans deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other desert environments inhaled significant quantities of fine silica dust during sandstorms. This exposure can cause silicosis, which may not become apparent for years after the exposure ended. Document your deployment locations and duration.
Asbestosis (DC 6833) is technically a type of pneumoconiosis but has its own diagnostic code due to its prevalence and distinct characteristics. DC 6832 covers other mineral dust diseases including silicosis, coal dust disease, and other occupational lung diseases. You will be rated under whichever specific code applies to your exposure.