Diagnostic Code 7906 · 38 CFR §4.119
Thyroiditis is inflammation of the thyroid gland. It can be caused by autoimmune disease (Hashimoto thyroiditis is the most common), viral infections, postpartum changes, or radiation exposure. Thyroiditis can cause the thyroid to function normally (euthyroid), produce too much hormone (hyperthyroid phase), or produce too little hormone (hypothyroid phase). Many cases of thyroiditis cycle through these phases — an initial hyperthyroid phase followed by hypothyroidism. Veterans may develop thyroiditis from autoimmune processes triggered by service-related stress, environmental exposures, or radiation exposure during service.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Thyroiditis with normal thyroid function (euthyroid) is rated at 0%. However, if thyroiditis manifests as hyperthyroidism, it is evaluated under DC 7900 (hyperthyroidism). If it manifests as hypothyroidism, it is evaluated under DC 7903 (hypothyroidism). The rating depends entirely on how the thyroiditis affects your thyroid function. |
Thyroid function tests (TSH, free T4, free T3) over time showing the pattern of thyroid dysfunction are essential. Thyroid antibody tests (TPO antibodies, thyroglobulin antibodies) confirm autoimmune thyroiditis. Thyroid ultrasound may show inflammation or structural changes. Treatment records document medication needs. If thyroiditis is secondary to radiation exposure or other service-connected factors, include a nexus opinion. Because thyroiditis often progresses through phases, serial lab work over months showing the transition from euthyroid to hyper- or hypothyroid strengthens the claim.
Thyroiditis is the inflammation of the thyroid gland — it is the underlying disease process. Hypothyroidism is the result — reduced thyroid function. Hashimoto thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. If your thyroiditis has caused hypothyroidism, the hypothyroidism is rated under DC 7903, which provides a more favorable rating than the 0% for euthyroid thyroiditis under DC 7906.
Yes. Many forms of thyroiditis go through phases. In the early inflammatory phase, stored thyroid hormone is released into the blood, causing temporary hyperthyroidism. As the inflammation damages the gland, it can no longer produce enough hormone, leading to hypothyroidism. Each phase is rated under its respective code — DC 7900 for hyperthyroidism and DC 7903 for hypothyroidism.