What are the VA rating percentages for Chronic Pharyngitis?

Chronic Pharyngitis (DC 6516) is rated at 30%, 10% under 38 CFR § 4.97, DC 6516 (analogous). Hoarseness, with thickening or nodules of cords, polyps, submucous infiltration, or premalignant changes on biopsy

What rates 30% for Chronic Pharyngitis under 38 CFR § 4.97, DC 6516 (analogous)?

Under 38 CFR § 4.97, DC 6516 (analogous) (DC 6516), a 30% rating for Chronic Pharyngitis requires: Hoarseness, with thickening or nodules of cords, polyps, submucous infiltration, or premalignant changes on biopsy

What rates 10% for Chronic Pharyngitis under 38 CFR § 4.97, DC 6516 (analogous)?

Under 38 CFR § 4.97, DC 6516 (analogous) (DC 6516), a 10% rating for Chronic Pharyngitis requires: Hoarseness, with inflammation of cords or mucous membrane

What happens during a C&P exam for Chronic Pharyngitis?

Most lung ratings turn on pulmonary function tests (38 CFR 4.97) - request a PFT measuring FEV-1, the FEV-1/FVC ratio, and DLCO. Under 38 CFR 4.96, post-bronchodilator values are used for rating - make sure your PFT includes the post-bronchodilator results.

← All Condition Guides

CLAIM RECON INTEL

Chronic Pharyngitis

Q: What evidence do I need for a Chronic Pharyngitis VA claim?

Key evidence for a Chronic Pharyngitis claim includes: Pulmonary function test (PFT) report with FEV-1, FEV-1/FVC, and DLCO, including post-bronchodilator values; Pulmonology treatment records and the diagnosis confirming the respiratory condition; Documentation of outpatient oxygen therapy, if required; Records of systemic corticosteroid courses and physician visits for exacerbations (asthma); Hospital/ER records for any episode of acute respiratory failure. All evidence should document both the condition and its impact on daily functioning.

DC 651638 C.F.R. § 4.97

Diagnostic Code

DC 6516

38 C.F.R. § 4.97

Rating Range

10–30%

2 severity tiers

Source

Referenced

38 C.F.R. Part 4

Chronic Pharyngitis is rated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs under DC 6516 of 38 CFR § 4.97, DC 6516 (analogous) across 2 severity tiers (30% / 10%). 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.

Educational tool only. Not legal or medical advice. Not affiliated with the VA.

Overview

Chronic inflammation of the pharynx causing persistent sore throat and throat discomfort

Rating Criteria

30%

Hoarseness, with thickening or nodules of cords, polyps, submucous infiltration, or premalignant changes on biopsy

10%

Hoarseness, with inflammation of cords or mucous membrane

Key Evidence

—Pulmonary function test (PFT) report with FEV-1, FEV-1/FVC, and DLCO, including post-bronchodilator values

—Pulmonology treatment records and the diagnosis confirming the respiratory condition

—Documentation of outpatient oxygen therapy, if required

—Records of systemic corticosteroid courses and physician visits for exacerbations (asthma)

—Hospital/ER records for any episode of acute respiratory failure

—Complete list of inhalers, nebulizers, and respiratory medications

C&P Exam Tips

1Most lung ratings turn on pulmonary function tests (38 CFR 4.97) - request a PFT measuring FEV-1, the FEV-1/FVC ratio, and DLCO.

2Under 38 CFR 4.96, post-bronchodilator values are used for rating - make sure your PFT includes the post-bronchodilator results.

3If a test result differs from how you actually function, the examiner can rely on the test that best reflects your disability - explain your real-world breathing limits.

4For asthma, the frequency of systemic corticosteroid courses and physician visits for exacerbations can drive the rating - document every steroid burst and exacerbation visit.

5If you require outpatient oxygen therapy, say so plainly - it supports a 100% evaluation regardless of PFT numbers.

6Report your worst days and how shortness of breath limits work, walking, and daily activity; bring your inhaler/oxygen equipment list.

Tools

Rating Calculator →Secondaries Explorer →C&P Exam Prep →PACT Act Scanner →2026 Rates →

Sources & Editorial

Rating criteria reference 38 C.F.R. Part 4 (Schedule for Rating Disabilities). This entry has not yet undergone editorial review against the live regulation text — consult the authoritative source directly before relying on the criteria shown.

View 38 C.F.R. Part 4 on eCFR →Editorial Standards →Suggest a correction →

EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026

LOADING