38 CFR Part 4 — 38 CFR § 4.97
Fibrosis Of Lung Diffuse Interstitial
dc-6825-fibrosis-of-lung-diffuse-interstitial
Respiratory
Diagnostic code
6825
Why your DC matters: DC 6825 is the exact code the VA uses to rate this condition. It determines which symptoms unlock which percentage, what evidence the rater looks for, and which secondaries are most likely to be approved.
Last verified against 38 CFR (eCFR Part 4):
Rating criteria (38 CFR Part 4)
Diagnostic code 6825 — Fibrosis Of Lung Diffuse Interstitial — is listed under 38 CFR § 4.97 in 38 CFR Part 4. The paragraphs below summarize how this code is used; the official schedule text controls exact percentages, formulas, and notes.
Schedule summary (educational, not a substitute for the regulation): Educational index row from the rating schedule naming convention; confirm exact diagnostic code, effective date, and criteria in the current eCFR Part 4.
Exact rating criteria: Open Part 4 in the eCFR (link under “Official source” below). Locate your diagnostic code number (6825) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / ⌘F) for “6825”. Copy the verbatim rating table, including any parenthetical notes, exceptions, and cross-references, for the version of Part 4 that applies to your effective date.
Effective dates & which schedule version applies
Which diagnostic code, percentage, and effective date apply depends on the facts of your claim and the version of the rating schedule in force for the period being decided. Generally, VA applies the schedule in effect at the specified time under 38 U.S.C. § 5110 and implementing rules, subject to exceptions (e.g., protected ratings, liberalizing law changes—see regulation and VA manual policy as applicable).
For older claims, the **current** eCFR may not match the text that applied years ago. If your decision references a prior percentage or code, compare against the Part 4 text **as of** your claim’s relevant dates; historical Federal Register / CFR snapshots may be needed for precise comparison.
The “Last verified” date on this page is when we last checked this educational summary against the electronic CFR—not the date of any VA policy or your personal claim decision.
Notes for your claim
Evidence: Show that your diagnosis and severity match the factors the schedule names for DC 6825 (e.g., measurements, frequency, treatment, functional loss), with medical and lay evidence as appropriate.
C&P exams: Results should reflect the schedule’s requirements (correct joints measured, correct formulas). If the exam omits required findings, consider submitting records or requesting clarification.
If you disagree with the DC, percentage, or effective date, review the Part 4 text for your period and consider a supplemental claim or appeal with a VA-accredited representative.
This site does not provide legal advice.
Official source
38 CFR Part 4 (eCFR) — locate diagnostic code 6825 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
DC 6825 (diffuse interstitial fibrosis, also called interstitial pneumonitis or fibrosing alveolitis) is the catch-all for idiopathic and other interstitial fibrosing diseases. Critical PACT lane note: pulmonary fibrosis is on the PACT Act presumptive list (38 USC § 1120) for veterans with qualifying burn pit / airborne hazard exposure (post-9/11 service in the Persian Gulf War theater, Afghanistan, and other listed locations). For PACT-qualifying veterans, the presumption shifts the burden — VA must connect IPF to service unless rebutted. The rating itself runs under the General Rating Formula for Interstitial Lung Disease — FVC, DLCO, exercise capacity, O2 requirement. IPF is typically progressive (median survival 3-5 years from diagnosis untreated); the rating ladder often climbs over time. Pirfenidone and nintedanib are the anti-fibrotic medications; their use is itself evidence of significant disease.
Rating Tiers — What Each Percentage Requires
| Rating | What It Takes | Evidence That Supports It |
|---|---|---|
| 100% | FVC < 50% predicted; OR DLCO (SB) < 40% predicted; OR maximum exercise capacity < 15 ml/kg/min O2 with cardiorespiratory limitation; OR cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension; OR requires outpatient oxygen therapy. | PFT, CPET, echo, or O2 prescription supporting any one criterion. |
| 60% | FVC 50-64% predicted; OR DLCO (SB) 40-55% predicted; OR maximum exercise capacity 15-20 ml/kg/min O2 with cardiorespiratory limitation. | PFT or CPET in range. |
| 30% | FVC 65-74% predicted; OR DLCO (SB) 56-65% predicted. | PFT in range. |
| 10% | FVC 75-80% predicted; OR DLCO (SB) 66-80% predicted. | PFT in range. |
| 0% | FVC and DLCO above 80% predicted with no functional impairment. | Imaging-confirmed IPF without measurable functional impairment. |
What Qualifies as 'IPF' Under DC 6825?
Progressive interstitial fibrosing lung disease, idiopathic
Diffuse interstitial fibrosis without identifiable cause (asbestos, drug-induced, hypersensitivity, autoimmune all excluded). UIP pattern on HRCT per ATS/ERS criteria.
Rated under General Rating Formula for Interstitial Lung Disease
Tier ladder based on FVC, DLCO, exercise capacity, O2 requirement, and PH/cor pulmonale. Disjunctive — any one measure triggers the tier.
PACT Act presumptive condition
Pulmonary fibrosis is on the PACT Act presumptive list (38 USC § 1120) for qualifying post-9/11 service. Presumption shifts the SC burden.
Distinct from secondary interstitial fibrosis
Asbestosis (DC 6833) — known asbestos exposure. Drug-induced (DC 6828) — specific medication etiology. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (DC 6824) — antigen-driven. IPF is the idiopathic catch-all.
Language Your Rater Needs to See
These are the exact (or near-exact) regulatory phrases that unlock specific tiers. If your DBQ or C&P report doesn't use this vocabulary, the rater may default to a lower percentage even when symptoms qualify.
“Requires outpatient oxygen therapy”
Clean 100% gate. Continuous home O2 = automatic 100%. IPF progresses to O2 requirement frequently — pull DME delivery records.
“Cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension”
Common late complication of IPF. Echo or RHC documentation triggers 100% independent of PFTs.
“FVC % predicted / DLCO (SB) % predicted”
Disjunctive ladder — ANY ONE pulmonary measure triggers the tier. DLCO degrades earlier than FVC in IPF; pursue full PFTs.
“Usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) pattern on HRCT”
Anchors IPF diagnosis vs. other interstitial lung diseases. UIP pattern (subpleural, basal-predominant reticulation + honeycombing + traction bronchiectasis) is required for definite IPF diagnosis per ATS/ERS criteria.
Evidence Checklist — Specific to This Condition
HRCT chest showing UIP pattern
CRITICALSubpleural reticulation, honeycombing, traction bronchiectasis, basal predominance. Anchors IPF diagnosis per ATS/ERS criteria.
Recent PFTs with FVC + DLCO
CRITICALFull PFT panel. DLCO degrades earlier than FVC in IPF. Anchors every tier.
Pulmonology consult notes confirming IPF diagnosis
CRITICALDistinguishes idiopathic from secondary interstitial fibrosis (asbestos, drug-induced, hypersensitivity, autoimmune).
Anti-fibrotic medication Rx (pirfenidone or nintedanib)
CRITICALUse of these medications is itself evidence of significant IPF requiring active management.
PACT Act exposure documentation (if post-9/11 service)
CRITICALService in PACT-listed locations: Persian Gulf War theater, Afghanistan post-9/11, etc. Triggers presumption.
Cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) if available
IMPORTANTVO2 max drives alternate paths at 60% and 100% tiers.
Echo for pulmonary hypertension
IMPORTANTLate-stage IPF develops PH; alternative 100% path.
Lung biopsy if performed
SUPPORTINGHistologic UIP pattern definitively diagnoses IPF; rarely needed if HRCT is classic.
C&P Exam Tips
Bring HRCT report with explicit mention of UIP pattern
Subpleural reticulation, honeycombing, basal predominance — these specifics anchor IPF diagnosis.
Bring full PFT with DLCO
DLCO is critical for IPF staging. FVC-only reports understate disease severity.
Document anti-fibrotic Rx use
Pirfenidone or nintedanib use anchors significant IPF requiring active management.
Don't downplay dyspnea progression
IPF is typically progressive. Describe functional decline year over year — climbing stairs that were easy 2 years ago, supplemental O2 needs.
Common Mistakes That Cost Veterans Points
Missing the PACT Act presumption for post-9/11 veterans
Pulmonary fibrosis is on the PACT Act presumptive list (38 USC § 1120). For post-9/11 service in qualifying locations (Gulf War theater, Afghanistan, etc.), the presumption shifts the burden. File under PACT provisions for the easiest service-connection path.
Filing without UIP pattern on HRCT
IPF diagnosis requires UIP pattern on HRCT per ATS/ERS criteria. Non-specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP) and other patterns are different diseases with different prognoses.
Accepting FVC-only PFT report
DLCO degrades earlier than FVC in IPF. If FVC is 75% (10% tier) but DLCO is 60% (30% tier), tier is 30% — but only if DLCO was tested.
Not pursuing pulmonary hypertension secondary or PH-driven 100%
Late-stage IPF develops PH. Echo screening should be periodic. PH triggers alternative 100% path independent of PFTs.
Tactical Plays
⚡ File under PACT Act presumption if post-9/11 service in qualifying location
Pulmonary fibrosis is on the PACT Act presumptive list (38 USC § 1120). For post-9/11 veterans who served in Persian Gulf War theater, Afghanistan, and other listed locations, the presumption shifts the burden — VA must connect IPF to service unless rebutted. This is the easiest service-connection path. Pull deployment records establishing qualifying location/period service, then file under PACT provisions explicitly.
⚡ Demand HRCT with explicit UIP pattern assessment
IPF diagnosis requires UIP pattern (subpleural, basal-predominant reticulation + honeycombing + traction bronchiectasis) per ATS/ERS criteria. Non-specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP) and other patterns are different diseases. The HRCT report should explicitly call out UIP vs. alternatives.
⚡ Pursue DLCO at every PFT — degrades earliest
DLCO often degrades before FVC in IPF progression. If FVC is 75% but DLCO is 60%, the 30% tier applies — but only if DLCO was tested. Demand full PFT panel at every pulmonology visit.
⚡ Anti-fibrotic Rx (pirfenidone, nintedanib) is itself evidence
These medications are FDA-approved specifically for IPF and prescribed only for significant disease. Pharmacy printout showing pirfenidone or nintedanib use anchors the IPF diagnosis and significant functional impairment.
⚡ Build the PH / cor pulmonale secondary file
Late-stage IPF develops pulmonary hypertension. Periodic echo screening should be standard. PH triggers alternative 100% path under DC 6825 AND rates separately under DC 7007. Don't wait for symptomatic RV failure — screen proactively.
⚡ Audit for other PACT presumptives if PACT-anchored
If your IPF is established under PACT presumption, the same deployment likely supports other PACT presumptive claims — bronchiolitis, COPD, asthma, glioblastoma, certain cancers, hypertension (added recently). Comprehensive PACT audit yields multiple claims.
Secondary Conditions to File With This One
Pulmonary hypertension / cor pulmonale
STRONGLate-stage IPF causes secondary PH. Rates separately or triggers alternative 100% path under DC 6825.
Right heart failure
STRONGDC 7007
Cor pulmonale from progressive IPF causes RV failure. Rates separately.
Lung cancer (PACT-presumptive in same lane)
MODERATEDC 6819
PACT Act added several respiratory cancers as presumptives. If lung cancer develops, direct secondary if IPF is PACT-anchored.
Depression secondary to terminal/progressive illness
STRONGDC 9434
IPF has well-documented depression comorbidity due to progressive nature + 3-5 year median survival untreated.
GERD (often comorbid with IPF)
MODERATEDC 7346
GERD is highly prevalent in IPF (~70-90% of patients) and may aggravate fibrosis. If GERD is independently SC, the interaction supports secondary claims.
Other PACT presumptives (if PACT-anchored)
MODERATEIf IPF qualifies under PACT, audit for other PACT presumptive conditions — bronchiolitis, COPD, asthma diagnosed post-deployment, glioblastoma, certain cancers, etc.
Compensation Scenarios
2026 rates (effective Dec 1, 2025, per va.gov)
0% — single, no dependents
TOTAL
$0.00/mo
Imaging-confirmed IPF, normal PFTs.
10% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$180.42
TOTAL
$180.42/mo
FVC 75-80% OR DLCO 66-80%.
30% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$552.47
TOTAL
$552.47/mo
FVC 65-74% OR DLCO 56-65%.
60% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$1,435.02
TOTAL
$1,435.02/mo
FVC 50-64% OR DLCO 40-55% OR exercise capacity 15-20 ml/kg/min.
100% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$3,938.58
TOTAL
$3,938.58/mo
FVC < 50% OR DLCO < 40% OR outpatient O2 OR cor pulmonale.
100% DC 6825 + 60% DC 7007 RHF + 70% DC 9434 depression
Base rating
$4,805.45
TOTAL
$4,805.45/mo
Late-stage IPF with cardiac + mental health comorbidities → predicate for SMC L (statutorily housebound).
Note: Amounts are approximations rounded to nearest dollar. Actual comp varies with effective date, dependents (spouse, children, parents — each adds), Aid & Attendance, and additional disabilities. Combined ratings use VA Math (§ 4.25), not simple addition.
Key Definitions
🩻What is UIP Pattern?
Usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) pattern = the characteristic HRCT appearance of IPF. Features: subpleural and basal predominance, reticular abnormality, honeycombing (clusters of cystic airspaces, 3-10mm diameter), traction bronchiectasis. ATS/ERS diagnostic criteria require UIP pattern for definite IPF.
📋What's the PACT Act presumption for IPF?
PACT Act (Honoring Our PACT Act of 2022, 38 USC § 1120) added pulmonary fibrosis as a presumptive condition for veterans who served in qualifying locations (Persian Gulf War theater, Afghanistan, and other listed locations) during post-9/11 service. Presumption shifts the SC burden — VA must rebut the service connection, not the veteran prove it.
💊What are Anti-Fibrotic Medications?
Pirfenidone (Esbriet) and nintedanib (Ofev) — FDA-approved specifically for IPF. Slow the rate of FVC decline but don't reverse fibrosis. Use of these medications is itself evidence of significant IPF requiring active management.
⏳What's the prognosis for IPF?
IPF is typically progressive. Median survival historically 3-5 years from diagnosis without anti-fibrotic therapy; modern anti-fibrotics extend this. The rating ladder often climbs over time as FVC and DLCO decline. Lung transplant is the only curative therapy.
How to File Your Claim
Pull HRCT with explicit UIP pattern assessment
ATS/ERS criteria — UIP pattern required for definite IPF.
Establish service-connection pathway
PACT presumption (post-9/11 qualifying location) is easiest. Otherwise direct in-service incurrence or aggravation.
Pull full PFTs (spirometry + DLCO) and any CPET
DLCO is critical. CPET drives VO2 max-based tiers.
File 21-526EZ specifying 'idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (DC 6825)' under PACT if applicable
Cite PACT Act presumption explicitly if qualifying.
Build PH / RHF / mental health secondary file proactively
IPF is progressive; secondaries accumulate. Build SMC L analysis preemptively.
Typical Claim Timeline
File initial claim
Day 0–7: Submit VA Form 21-526EZ with all medical evidence on file
VA acknowledges claim
Week 1–2: Receive confirmation letter and claim tracking number
C&P examination scheduled
Month 1–3: VA contracts an exam vendor and sends you appointment notice
Attend C&P exam
Bring your full evidence package; describe symptoms on your worst days, not your best
Decision & rating notice
Month 3–6: Decision letter with rating percentage and effective date
First payment & retro back pay
Within 15 days of decision; retroactive to claim date (or effective date if earlier)
Timeline varies by case complexity and VA regional office workload. Some claims resolve faster; others take longer.
Important Considerations
PACT Act presumption for post-9/11 qualifying service
Pulmonary fibrosis is on the PACT presumptive list (38 USC § 1120). Easiest SC path for qualifying veterans — burden shifts to VA.
UIP pattern on HRCT is the diagnostic anchor
Demand HRCT with explicit UIP pattern assessment per ATS/ERS criteria. Without it, the diagnosis is contested.
DLCO degrades earliest — pursue full PFTs
FVC-only reports understate IPF severity. Demand full PFT with diffusing capacity at every visit.
Plan for progression — IPF climbs the ladder
Median survival 3-5 years untreated; anti-fibrotics extend. Re-rate periodically; build secondary file proactively.
Related Tools & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IPF a PACT Act presumptive condition?
Yes — pulmonary fibrosis is on the PACT Act presumptive list (38 USC § 1120) for veterans who served in qualifying locations (Persian Gulf War theater, Afghanistan, and other listed locations) during post-9/11 service. The presumption shifts the SC burden — VA must rebut, not the veteran prove. File under PACT provisions explicitly if qualifying.
What's the difference between IPF (DC 6825) and asbestosis (DC 6833)?
Both are interstitial fibrosing lung diseases. IPF is idiopathic — no identifiable cause. Asbestosis has documented asbestos exposure + pleural plaques (pathognomonic). Different SC pathways: IPF often qualifies under PACT for post-9/11 service; asbestosis runs through M21-1 asbestos-exposure framework. Both rate under the same General Rating Formula for Interstitial Lung Disease.
Does anti-fibrotic medication (pirfenidone / nintedanib) affect my rating?
Use of pirfenidone (Esbriet) or nintedanib (Ofev) is itself evidence of significant IPF requiring active management. These FDA-approved IPF-specific medications are prescribed only for established disease. Pharmacy printout anchors the diagnosis but doesn't directly change the tier — tier is based on PFTs / exercise capacity / O2 requirement.
What's the highest possible DC 6825 rating?
100% — triggered by FVC < 50%, DLCO < 40%, exercise capacity < 15 ml/kg/min, cor pulmonale / pulmonary hypertension, or outpatient O2 requirement. Disjunctive — any one criterion. IPF progression typically reaches 100% over time as disease advances.
Can I claim depression secondary to my IPF?
Yes — IPF has well-documented depression comorbidity due to progressive nature + 3-5 year median survival untreated. Mental health DC (9434 major depression, 9400 GAD, etc.) rates separately as secondary to chronic progressive disease.
Official Regulatory Source
IPF is rated under 38 CFR § 4.97, DC 6825 — diffuse interstitial fibrosis. General Rating Formula for Interstitial Lung Disease (FVC / DLCO / exercise capacity / O2 / PH).
38 CFR § 4.97 — Respiratory System (eCFR) →Scroll to DC 6825. PACT Act presumption available for qualifying post-9/11 service per 38 USC § 1120. Compare to DC 6833 (asbestosis) for asbestos-specific lane.
Next Steps
If your rating decision lists DC 6825, compare your current symptoms and documentation against the criteria above. Consider:
- Requesting a copy of your rating decision and C&P exam report from the VA
- Gathering all relevant medical records (VA and private providers)
- Documenting functional limitations and how they impact work and daily activities
- Obtaining a nexus letter if needed to establish or strengthen service connection
- Filing for secondary conditions that may be related to this primary condition
- Contacting a VA-accredited VSO, claims agent, or attorney to review your file
This is general educational information only — not legal or medical advice.
Also: DC code lookup (tools) lists the same index in a compact layout.
Source: 38 CFR Part 4, Diagnostic Code 6825 • va.gov
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This page provides general educational information only based on public VA regulations (38 CFR) and va.gov resources. It is not legal, medical, or claims assistance. Ratings and service connections are decided case-by-case by the VA based on the individual veteran’s evidence. We do not prepare claims, generate documents, or provide personalized advice. Always consult a VA-accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO), attorney, or your physician for help with your specific situation. Verify the latest rules on va.gov.