Laryngitis, chronic (DC 6516)

Body system: Respiratory SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.97DBQ: DBQ ENT Sinusitis, Rhinitis and Other Conditions of the Nose, Throat, Larynx and Pharynx

Chronic laryngitis is long-term inflammation of your voice box (larynx) that causes ongoing voice problems. The VA rates this condition at either 10% or 30% based on how severe your symptoms are and what physical changes have occurred in your vocal cords. A 10% rating means you have hoarseness with basic inflammation, while 30% means more serious changes like thickened vocal cords, growths, or pre-cancerous tissue that significantly impact your voice quality.

Rating levels

  • 30% — You have chronic hoarseness along with visible changes to your vocal cords that a doctor can see during an examination. These changes include thickened vocal cords, growths called nodules (small bumps) or polyps (larger growths), swelling under the surface tissue of your throat, or tissue changes that could potentially become cancerous but aren't yet malignant (as confirmed by a biopsy where tissue is removed and tested).
  • 10% — You have ongoing hoarseness in your voice caused by swelling and irritation of your vocal cords (the bands of tissue in your throat that vibrate to create sound) or the moist lining of your throat. Your voice sounds rough, raspy, or strained due to this chronic inflammation that doesn't go away.

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.