Diagnostic Code 6827 · 38 CFR §4.97
Pulmonary fibrosis is scarring of the lung tissue that makes the lungs stiff and progressively harder to breathe with. As scar tissue replaces healthy lung tissue, the lungs lose their ability to transfer oxygen into the blood. This is a form of interstitial lung disease. Veterans are at elevated risk due to exposure to asbestos, silica dust, burn pit smoke, chemical agents, and other toxic substances during military service. The PACT Act has recognized many toxic exposures that can cause pulmonary fibrosis.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | |
| 60% | |
| 30% | |
| 10% |
High-resolution CT scan showing fibrotic changes (honeycombing, ground-glass opacities, traction bronchiectasis), Pulmonary function tests with DLCO measurement (especially important for fibrosis), Lung biopsy results if performed, Pulmonology evaluation documenting the diagnosis and progression, Service records documenting toxic exposures — asbestos, silica, burn pits, chemicals, Deployment records and occupational exposure history