Diagnostic Code 6314 · 38 CFR §4.88b
Beriberi is caused by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency. It has two forms: wet beriberi (cardiovascular) and dry beriberi (neurological). The VA recognizes beriberi as a presumptive condition for former POWs detained 30 or more days. After active disease resolves, residuals are rated under appropriate body system codes.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | Peripheral neuropathy with absent knee or ankle jerks and loss of sensation, or symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, anorexia, dizziness, heaviness and stiffness of legs, headache, or sleep disturbance. |
| 60% | Cardiomegaly (enlarged heart), or peripheral neuropathy with footdrop or atrophy of thigh or calf muscles. |
| 100% | Congestive heart failure, anasarca (severe generalized swelling), or Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. |
Medical records confirming beriberi with thiamine levels. POW documentation if applicable. Echocardiogram for wet beriberi. Nerve conduction studies for dry beriberi. Documentation of functional limitations.
Yes, for former POWs detained 30 or more days.
Wet beriberi damages the heart causing fluid retention and heart failure. Dry beriberi damages peripheral nerves causing numbness, weakness, and muscle wasting.