Diagnostic Code 6351 · 38 CFR §4.88b
This code covers HIV disability ratings based on disease progression and immune system impact, not just the diagnosis. Diagnosed psychiatric illness, CNS manifestations, opportunistic infections, and neoplasms may be rated separately if doing so produces a higher overall evaluation.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Asymptomatic following initial diagnosis, with or without lymphadenopathy or decreased T4 cell count. |
| 10% | Following development of HIV-related constitutional symptoms, or T4 cell count between 200 and 500, or use of approved medications, or evidence of depression or memory loss with employment limitations. |
| 30% | Recurrent constitutional symptoms, intermittent diarrhea, and use of approved medications, or minimum rating with T4 cell count less than 200. |
| 60% | Refractory constitutional symptoms, diarrhea, and pathological weight loss, or minimum rating following development of AIDS-related opportunistic infection or neoplasm. |
| 100% | AIDS with recurrent opportunistic infections or with secondary diseases afflicting multiple body systems, or HIV-related illness with debility and progressive weight loss. |
HIV confirmatory test results. Serial CD4 counts and viral loads. Complete antiretroviral medication history including side effects. Records of opportunistic infections. Documentation of constitutional symptoms and functional limitations.
Yes. The VA recognizes the burden of daily medication, monitoring, and managing a chronic condition. Most veterans receive at least 10 percent.
Through documentation of the initial positive test during service, evidence of exposure, or medical records showing progression from service through diagnosis.
Absolutely. Antiretroviral medications can cause peripheral neuropathy, metabolic syndrome, kidney dysfunction, and bone density loss — each claimable as secondary.