Arthritis, pneumococcic
38 CFR § 4.71a — Musculoskeletal system
Schedule listing: arthritis, pneumococcic.
Diagnostic code
5005
DC 5005 addresses pneumococcic (pneumococcal) arthritis under 38 CFR § 4.71a. Like other infectious-arthritis entries, it is uncommon today but still relevant when residuals are tied to that etiology.
Evaluations track the regulatory criteria for DC 5005. Functional loss, joint involvement, and any chronic deformity should be documented and compared to the schedule language.
For help tying rare infectious etiologies to service and choosing the correct DC, work with a VA-accredited representative.
Official VA rating criteria — infectious arthritis (DCs 5004–5008)
Infectious arthritis ratings follow joint destruction, ankylosis, and functional loss after infection. Compare residual joint codes when appropriate.
| Rating | VA criteria (themes) | Key evidence at this level |
|---|---|---|
| 40–60% | Severe joint destruction, ankylosis, or need for fusion after infection. | Operative reports, imaging, infectious-disease clearance. |
| 20–30% | Moderate limitation or recurrent effusions after treatment. | Orthopedic ROM, synovial fluid labs history. |
| 10% | Mild residual pain or motion loss. | Post-treatment clinic notes. |
| 0% | Resolved infection without lasting impairment. | Normal joint on exam after antibiotics. |
Source: 38 CFR § 4.71a — DCs 5004–5008.
Service connection — common paths
Direct service connection
Direct connection when the infectious arthritis is shown to relate to service (infection during service, line-of-duty, etc.).
Secondary service connection
Possible when another SC condition (e.g. immune compromise) is medically shown to cause or aggravate the infectious process—requires nexus evidence.
Secondary conditions sometimes pursued with Arthritis, pneumococcic
After infectious arthritis, secondary claims may focus on joint destruction, limb length issues, chronic pain, and mental health—each evaluated on its own merits.
Residual ROM and ankylosis per § 4.71a when applicable.
If chronic disability and treatment burden support a mental-health diagnosis.
“Strong” / “Moderate” / “Developing” reflect how often these theories appear in educational materials—not a prediction of approval. Use accredited help for your specific file.
Already service-connected for something else?
Infectious arthritis may be service-connected when linked to in-service infection or treatment; secondary theories from other SC conditions are uncommon without specific evidence.
STRs and labs help establish the infectious onset.
Last verified against 38 CFR (eCFR Part 4):
Rating criteria (38 CFR Part 4)
Diagnostic code 5005 — Arthritis, pneumococcic — is listed under 38 CFR § 4.71a 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): Use 38 CFR § 4.71a and locate DC 5005 for the full rating table and notes.
Exact rating criteria: Open Part 4 in the eCFR (link under “Official source” below). Locate your diagnostic code number (5005) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / ⌘F) for “5005”. 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 5005 (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 5005 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
Discuss how your evidence fits DC 5005 with a VA-accredited representative. Quick search: DC code lookup.
⚠️ 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.