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Aphonia, complete organic
Diagnostic code 6519 · Respiratory system · 38 CFR 4.97
VA has proposed changing these rules
The proposal (87 FR 8474 (supplemental proposal 89 FR 74162, Sept. 12, 2024), published February 15, 2022) is not in effect. The rules on this page still apply until VA publishes a final rule.
Read the proposal in the Federal RegisterRating criteria: the exact regulation text
Quoted from 38 CFR 4.97. The "Rating" column is the percentage VA assigns for that level.
| Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| 6519 Aphonia, complete organic: | |
| Constant inability to communicate by speech | 1 100 |
| Constant inability to speak above a whisper | 60 |
| Note: Evaluate incomplete aphonia as laryngitis, chronic (DC 6516). |
Where else the regulation mentions this code
These lines appear under other codes or headings in the schedule and name this code.
Rate the residuals of partial laryngectomy as laryngitis (DC 6516), aphonia (DC 6519), or stenosis of larynx (DC 6520).
Note: Or evaluate as aphonia (DC 6519).
Note (1): Rate the residuals of speech impairment as complete organic aphonia (DC 6519) or incomplete aphonia as laryngitis, chronic (DC 6516).
Notes for the whole table
1 Review for entitlement to special monthly compensation under § 3.350 of this chapter.
Related codes in the regulation
- 6516 Laryngitis, chronicMentioned together
- 6518 Laryngectomy, totalMentioned together
- 6520 Larynx, stenosis of, including residuals of laryngeal trauma (unilateral or bilateral)Mentioned together
- 7202 Tongue, loss of whole or partMentioned together
The VA exam form for this condition
VA examiners record their findings on a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ). Reading it shows you what the exam will measure and ask.
Rules that apply to this body system
Where this comes from
38 CFR 4.97, VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities, from the official eCFR.
Regulation text current as of October 16, 2026.
Change history for this code (38 CFR Part 4, Appendix A): Criterion October 7, 1996.
Read it on eCFR.govInformation, not advice
This page shows the text of VA's rating regulation for information. It is not a rating estimate, and it is not legal or medical advice. VA decides every rating on the evidence in your file.
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