EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. Not legal or medical advice. Not affiliated with the VA.
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Lyme Disease (Chronic)
DC 6319 | 38 CFR § 4.88b, DC 6319 |
Lyme Disease (Chronic) is rated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs under DC 6319 of 38 CFR § 4.88b, DC 6319 across 4 severity tiers (100% -- Severe systemic disease / 60% -- Moderate to severe disease / 30% -- Moderate disease / 10% -- Mild disease). Service connection requires (1) a current diagnosis, (2) an in-service event, injury, or exposure, and (3) a medical nexus opinion linking the two under 38 C.F.R. § 3.303.
OVERVIEW
Tick-borne bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi. May cause chronic joint pain, neurological problems, fatigue, and cardiac effects. Veterans in endemic areas (Eastern US, training areas) at elevated risk. Post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome can persist for years.
RATING CRITERIA (4 LEVELS)
100% -- Severe systemic disease
Active disease requiring intensive treatment or with severe complications.
60% -- Moderate to severe disease
Frequent exacerbations or moderate systemic involvement.
30% -- Moderate disease
Requiring ongoing treatment with periodic exacerbations.
10% -- Mild disease
Controlled with medication.
KEY EVIDENCE TO GATHER
-Service treatment records
-Current medical diagnosis and treatment records
-Buddy/lay statements
-Prescription history
-Employment impact documentation
-Any relevant diagnostic testing
C&P EXAM TIPS (5)
1.Bring all relevant medical records and a written list of symptoms.
2.Report your worst days, not your best. The VA rates based on overall impairment.
3.Document how the condition affects daily activities, work, and relationships.
4.Mention all medications and their side effects.
5.Bring buddy statements from people who observe your symptoms.
EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026