Body system: Respiratory SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.97
Granulomatous rhinitis is chronic inflammation and infection inside your nose and nasal passages that creates small clusters of inflamed tissue called granulomas. The VA rates this condition under two levels: 100% for severe, life-threatening types like Wegener's granulomatosis that can damage multiple organs, and 20% for other less severe granulomatous infections. The huge gap between ratings reflects that some forms are immediately disabling while others cause ongoing but manageable nasal problems.
Rating levels
- 100% — This criteria covers two severe forms of granulomatous rhinitis (chronic inflammation in the nose and sinuses with specific tissue changes). Wegener's granulomatosis is a serious autoimmune disease that causes widespread inflammation of blood vessels throughout the body, while lethal midline granuloma is a destructive condition that severely damages the nose, sinuses, and surrounding facial structures, potentially affecting breathing, eating, and speaking.
- 20% — This criteria covers chronic sinusitis caused by certain types of bacterial or fungal infections that create small areas of inflammation called granulomas (tiny clusters of immune cells that form when your body tries to fight off persistent germs). These infections are more serious than typical sinus infections and don't respond well to standard antibiotic treatments, often causing ongoing sinus inflammation, congestion, facial pain, and difficulty breathing through your nose.