Tuberculosis, miliary (DC 6311)

Body system: Infectious Diseases, Immune Disorders, and Nutritional DeficienciesRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.88b

Miliary tuberculosis is the form of tuberculosis where the bacteria spread through the bloodstream to multiple organs (named for the millet-seed-sized lesions on chest imaging). It can affect the lungs, liver, spleen, brain, bone marrow, and other organs. The VA rates this condition at 100% during active disease, and per the Note in 38 CFR § 4.88b, the 100% rating CONTINUES past the end of treatment. Six months after treatment ends, the VA conducts a MANDATORY examination to determine the new rating, any reduction is subject to the due-process rules of 38 CFR § 3.105(e). After that exam, any lasting damage is rated separately under the appropriate body-system codes (pulmonary scarring or fibrosis under DC 6731 or 6732, hepatic damage under the digestive system codes, splenic involvement under the hemic and lymphatic codes, neurological residuals under § 4.124a (peripheral nerves) or § 4.124 (cranial nerves) for CNS involvement, and any other body-system damage) and combined under § 4.25.

Rating levels

  • 100% — You qualify for 100% during active miliary tuberculosis. Per the Note below, the 100% rating CONTINUES past the cessation of treatment for active disease, with a mandatory VA examination six months after treatment ends to determine the appropriate rating going forward.
  • -1% — Two timing rules apply after active treatment ends. RULE 1: the 100% rating CONTINUES past the cessation of treatment, it does not drop the day treatment ends. RULE 2: six months after treatment ends, the VA must perform a MANDATORY examination to determine the new rating going forward. Any rating reduction from that exam (or any later exam) is subject to the due-process protections of 38 CFR § 3.105(e). After that point, any lasting damage from miliary tuberculosis is rated SEPARATELY under whichever body-system code best captures the deficit, including pulmonary scarring or fibrosis under DC 6731 or 6732, hepatic damage under the digestive system codes, splenic involvement under the hemic and lymphatic codes, neurological residuals under § 4.124a (peripheral nerves) or § 4.124 (cranial nerves) for CNS involvement, and any other body-system damage, then combined under § 4.25.

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.