VA Disability Rating for Brucellosis (DC 6316)

Diagnostic Code 6316 · 38 CFR §4.88b

What Is It?

Brucellosis is contracted from infected animals or contaminated dairy products. The VA uses the General Rating Formula. Both the initial diagnosis and recurrence must be confirmed by culture, serologic testing, or both. Residuals including meningitis, liver, spleen, and musculoskeletal conditions are rated under appropriate body system codes.

Rating Criteria

RatingCriteria
100%Active brucellosis confirmed by culture or serologic testing with systemic symptoms during treatment.
0%Resolved. Residuals including meningitis, liver, spleen, and musculoskeletal conditions are rated under appropriate body system codes.

Evidence Needed

Blood cultures or serological tests confirming Brucella. Service records documenting exposure. Treatment records. Documentation of relapses. Post-treatment organ evaluations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can brucellosis relapse years later?

Yes. Brucella bacteria can persist and reactivate. Prolonged antibiotic treatment and monitoring are important.

How were veterans exposed?

Through handling infected livestock, consuming unpasteurized dairy overseas, and rarely through biological defense research.