Adenitis, tuberculous, active or inactive (DC 7710)

Body system: Hemic and Lymphatic SystemsRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.117

The VA does not rate tuberculous adenitis (lymph node tuberculosis) under a single ladder. During active disease, the rating is 100%. Once inactivity is attained, the post-inactivity schedule is set by 38 CFR § 4.88c or § 4.89 depending on the veteran's entitlement date. § 4.88c (initial entitlement AFTER Aug 19, 1968) gives 100% for 1 year after inactivity, then rates residuals under the appropriate body-system codes (typically residual lymphadenopathy, scarring, or fistula rated under the hemic/lymphatic or skin codes). § 4.89 (entitled on Aug 19, 1968 under Pub. L. 90-493 protection) gives a graduated schedule: 100% for 2 years, 50% for the next 4, 30% for the next 5, then 0% absent compensable residual. § 4.89 only applies to veterans with nonpulmonary TB active on or after Oct 10, 1949, and the rating decision must mention the Pub. L. 90-493 protection.

Rating levels

  • 100% — You qualify for 100% during active tuberculous adenitis (lymph node tuberculosis). The 100% rating continues during the active phase of disease. Once the disease becomes INACTIVE, the rating shifts to the graduated post-inactivity schedule under either 38 CFR § 4.88c or § 4.89, see the Notes below for which applies and the timing.
  • -1% — If your initial entitlement to TB compensation began AFTER Aug 19, 1968: you receive 100% for ONE YEAR after the date your tuberculous adenitis (lymph node tuberculosis) is determined to be inactive. After that one-year window, the 100% ends and any lasting damage (residuals) is rated SEPARATELY under whichever body-system code best matches the deficit (residual lymphadenopathy, scarring, or fistula rated under the hemic/lymphatic or skin codes). The residual rating is coded with the TB code prefix (e.g., 5001-XXXX). If you have BOTH pulmonary and nonpulmonary TB residuals, the 1-year total cannot apply to both simultaneously, the VA uses the total for one and combines it with the residuals of the other to give you the best overall benefit during that year.
  • -1% — If you were already receiving (or entitled to receive) TB compensation ON Aug 19, 1968, you fall under the older graduated schedule protected by Pub. L. 90-493. After tuberculous adenitis (lymph node tuberculosis) is determined to be inactive, the schedule runs: 100% for the first 2 years, 50% for the next 4 years (years 3 through 6), 30% for the next 5 years (years 7 through 11), and 0% afterward unless you have a separately compensable permanent residual. The graduated rating is NOT combined with residuals of nonpulmonary TB unless the residual covers a different functional loss. All ending dates are controlled by the date of attainment of inactivity. The rating decision must specifically mention the Pub. L. 90-493 protection.

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.