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Bronchiectasis
Diagnostic code 6601 · 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 |
|---|---|
| 6601 Bronchiectasis: | |
| With incapacitating episodes of infection of at least six weeks total duration per year | 100 |
| With incapacitating episodes of infection of four to six weeks total duration per year, or; near constant findings of cough with purulent sputum associated with anorexia, weight loss, and frank hemoptysis and requiring antibiotic usage almost continuously | 60 |
| With incapacitating episodes of infection of two to four weeks total duration per year, or; daily productive cough with sputum that is at times purulent or blood-tinged and that requires prolonged (lasting four to six weeks) antibiotic usage more than twice a year | 30 |
| Intermittent productive cough with acute infection requiring a course of antibiotics at least twice a year | 10 |
| Or rate according to pulmonary impairment as for chronic bronchitis (DC 6600). | |
| Note: An incapacitating episode is one that requires bedrest and treatment by a physician. |
Notes for the whole table
1 Review for entitlement to special monthly compensation under § 3.350 of this chapter.
Related codes in the regulation
- 6600 Bronchitis, chronicRated using
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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