Diagnostic Code 6830 · 38 CFR §4.97
Radiation-induced pulmonary pneumonitis or fibrosis develops when radiation therapy damages lung tissue. This is relevant for veterans who received chest radiation to treat a service-connected cancer, or for atomic veterans exposed to ionizing radiation during nuclear testing or cleanup operations. The lung damage may appear weeks to months after exposure and can progress to permanent fibrosis.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Mild radiation fibrosis on imaging with minimal PFT impairment and few symptoms. |
| 30% | Moderate radiation-induced lung changes with measurable PFT reduction and some exertional dyspnea. |
| 60% | Significant radiation fibrosis with substantial PFT impairment and marked exercise limitation. |
| 100% | Severe radiation pneumonitis or fibrosis causing respiratory failure, requiring continuous oxygen, or with cor pulmonale. |
Records of radiation therapy or ionizing radiation exposure during service. Imaging showing radiation-pattern fibrosis. Current PFTs. Pulmonologist opinion linking lung changes to radiation exposure. For atomic veterans, documentation of participation in nuclear testing or cleanup.
Lung damage from radiation therapy for a service-connected cancer is generally service-connectable as a secondary condition. You still need to file a claim and provide evidence that the lung changes are due to the radiation rather than another cause.
Veterans who participated in nuclear weapons testing or cleanup of nuclear accidents may be eligible for presumptive service connection for certain radiation-related conditions. Respiratory effects of ionizing radiation exposure can be claimed under these provisions.