[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 31 (Tuesday, February 15, 2022)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 8474-8498]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-02049]


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DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

38 CFR Parts 3 and 4

RIN 2900-AQ72


Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Ear, Nose, Throat, and 
Audiology Disabilities; Special Provisions Regarding Evaluation of 
Respiratory Conditions; Schedule for Rating Disabilities--Respiratory 
System

AGENCY: Department of Veterans Affairs.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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SUMMARY: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to revise 
sections that address the ear, nose, throat, audiology, and respiratory 
systems. The purpose of these changes is to update medical terminology, 
incorporate medical advances that have occurred since the last review, 
and provide well-defined criteria in accordance with actual clinical 
practice. VA will also rename the body system currently designated for 
conditions related to hearing and the ear, to include the nose and 
throat. VA will also consolidate within the scope of otolaryngology 
several diagnostic codes (DCs) currently listed within the respiratory 
system.

DATES: VA must receive comments on or before April 18, 2022.

ADDRESSES: Comments may be submitted through

[[Page 8475]]

www.Regulations.gov. Comments received will be available at 
www.Regulations.gov for public viewing, inspection or copies.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Gary Reynolds, M.D., Medical Officer, 
Regulations Staff (210), Compensation Service, Veterans Benefits 
Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, 
Washington, DC 20420, (202) 461-9700. (This is not a toll-free 
telephone number.)

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: As part of its ongoing revision of the 
Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD, or the Rating Schedule), VA is 
proposing changes to the portions of the VASRD that address the 
audiology system, which VA last addressed in 1999 (see 64 FR 25202), as 
well as the respiratory system, which VA last addressed in 2006 (see 71 
FR 52457). The proposed rule reflects advances in medical knowledge, 
recommendations from VA experts in audiology and respiratory 
conditions, and comments from experts and the public gathered during an 
October 2011 forum in New York City.
    VA proposes to incorporate more current respiratory and auditory 
terminology and apply current standards of assessing and evaluating 
impairment. Where changes to the scientific and/or medical nature of a 
given condition have been proposed, VA has cited the published, 
publicly-available sources for these changes. The proposed changes are 
not a reflection of any particular expert's comments or recommendations 
but were based on published, peer-reviewed materials. Materials from 
the public forum are available for public inspection at the Office of 
Regulation Policy and Management (see the ADDRESSES section of this 
rulemaking), and other deliberative materials are cited herein.
    VA also intends to reorganize the Rating Schedule so its 
classifications of injuries and diseases more closely resemble those 
used in health care. This reorganization involves moving several 
diagnostic codes (DCs) from ``The Respiratory System'' to a new body 
system designated as ``Ear, Nose, Throat, and Auditory Disabilities.''

I. The Respiratory System

A. Proposed Changes to 38 CFR 4.96

    VA proposes to revise Sec.  4.96 to clarify, simplify, and 
eliminate redundancies in the special provisions regarding respiratory 
conditions. Paragraph (a) currently precludes simultaneous ratings for 
specific coexisting respiratory conditions. VA proposes to amend 
paragraph (a) by simply stating that VA may not combine, under 38 CFR 
4.25, Combined Ratings Table, coexisting respiratory conditions unless 
otherwise directed. Under this proposed rule, the only respiratory 
disability that VA may combine with other respiratory disabilities is 
DC 6847, sleep apnea. The proposed rule notes which DCs may be combined 
with DC 6847.
    VA does not propose any change to current paragraph (b), which 
discusses veterans who received, or were entitled to receive, 
compensation for tuberculosis as of August 19, 1968.
    VA proposes to remove paragraph (c), which deals with special 
monthly compensation (SMC) for complete organic aphonia. Complete 
organic aphonia, currently evaluated under DC 6519, is among those 
disabilities that VA is proposing to move to the new body system, 
``Ear, Nose, Throat, and Auditory Disabilities,'' as DC 6230, with a 
footnote discussing SMC. Therefore, the respiratory system no longer 
requires this paragraph.
    As a result of this deletion, VA intends to redesignate current 
paragraph (d) as paragraph (c). The current paragraph (d) provides 
information on the use of pulmonary function tests (PFTs) to evaluate 
the severity of certain respiratory conditions. As discussed in detail 
below, VA proposes to evaluate a number of respiratory conditions using 
a General Rating Formula for Respiratory Conditions (General Rating 
Formula), which reference various PFTs. As such, VA proposes to amend 
the subheading for revised Sec.  4.96(c) to expand the list of all DCs 
that VA will rate using the General Rating Formula.
    Within revised paragraph (c), VA proposes to amend subparagraph 
(1). Currently, Sec.  4.96(d)(1)(ii) states that PFTs are not necessary 
when an individual is diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension, cor 
pulmonale, or right ventricular hypertrophy. A new DC addressing the 
requirements for ``pulmonary hypertension'' (discussed below) is being 
proposed herein. Furthermore, the proposed General Rating Formula for 
Respiratory Conditions includes METS as an evaluation criteria, which 
are the same evaluation criteria used in the General Rating Formula for 
Diseases of the Heart. This means cor pulmonale and right ventricular 
hypertrophy can both be evaluated within the respiratory system under 
its General Rating Formula. Therefore, the current subparagraph 
(d)(1)(ii) will no longer be necessary. With the absence of that 
subparagraph, VA proposes to redesignate current subparagraphs 
(d)(1)(iii) and (d)(1)(iv) as subparagraphs (c)(1)(ii) and (c)(1)(iii), 
respectively.
    Current subparagraph (d)(2) discusses the use of diffusion capacity 
of the lung for carbon monoxide by the single breath method (DLCO 
(SB)). The new General Rating Formula and proposed pulmonary 
hypertension code have sufficient alternative criteria to evaluate 
respiratory disabilities when the DLCO (SB) is not available. VA may 
still consider using DLCO (SB) to evaluate respiratory disabilities, 
but VA will not require it and the examiner need not state why the test 
would not be useful or valid in a particular case. Accordingly, VA 
proposes to delete current subparagraph (d)(2).
    VA proposes to remove current subparagraphs (d)(4) and (d)(5). 
These paragraphs discuss the need for post-bronchodilator studies 
during examinations, except in certain circumstances, and the need to 
utilize post-bronchodilator results as a more accurate value in 
evaluating respiratory disabilities. VA proposes to remove these 
subparagraphs because whether pre- or post-bronchodilator studies 
accurately reflect an individual's medical condition is a medical 
determination and therefore is more appropriately decided by a medical 
practitioner and/or examiner; this information should be considered as 
part of the medical record, to include treatment notes and/or 
examination. Therefore, there is no need to instruct rating personnel 
on the use of post-bronchodilator studies.
    VA also proposes to remove current subparagraph (d)(7) because it 
is inaccurate. Obstructive respiratory disease may be present, ratable, 
and compensable even though both Forced Expiratory Volume in one second 
(FEV-1) and Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) are greater than 100 percent. 
See Matthew J. Hegewald and Robert O. Crapo, ``Pulmonary Function 
Testing,'' Murray and Nadel's Textbook of Respiratory Medicine 527-28 
(5th ed. 2010).
    As a result of the above deletions, VA intends to redesignate 
current subparagraph (d)(3) as (c)(2), and redesignate current 
subparagraph (d)(6) as (c)(3), with no substantive changes.
    Finally, VA proposes to add a new paragraph (d), Respiratory 
conditions and comorbid cardiovascular conditions. A MET is defined as 
the amount of oxygen consumed by a person at rest. This measurement is 
used to calculate the energy cost of a specific activity in multiples 
of the amount of oxygen consumed by a person at rest. Oxygen 
consumption is possible through the integrated operation of two 
distinct body systems, the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. The 
respiratory system

[[Page 8476]]

captures and collects oxygen, while the cardiovascular system delivers 
the oxygen to muscles (including the heart itself) performing the work 
associated with a specific activity. See M. Jette. ``Metabolic 
Equivalents (METS) in Exercise Testing, Exercise Prescription, and 
Evaluation of Functional Capacity,'' 13(8) Clin. Cardiol. 555-65 
(1990).
    Typically, when disability affects either the cardiovascular or 
respiratory systems, it is easy to apportion disability using METs to 
the affected system. However, when both the cardiovascular and 
respiratory systems are involved, it is difficult to apportion the 
contribution to the observed disability by each system. To avoid the 
potential rating complications posed by situations where coexistent 
cardiovascular and respiratory disabilities can be evaluated using 
METs, VA will instruct raters to evaluate only one body system using 
METs and evaluate the other body system using criteria other than METs, 
absent instructions otherwise in individual DCs. (The evaluation levels 
for METs will be the same in both cardiovascular and respiratory 
systems--that is, the METs yielding a 60 percent evaluation level in 
the cardiovascular system will yield the same evaluation in the 
respiratory system.) The General Rating Formula for Respiratory 
Conditions in Sec.  4.97 lists several types of test results that can 
be used to evaluate a respiratory condition. When METs are used to 
evaluate a respiratory disability under Sec.  4.97, they will not be 
used to evaluate a comorbid cardiovascular disability under Sec.  
4.104, and vice versa. Raters will use METs in the evaluation of the 
disability that would provide the veteran with the most advantageous 
combined rating.

B. Proposed Changes to 38 CFR 4.97

    This proposed rule addresses VA's outdated organization of the DCs 
within the current respiratory schedule. This rule also updates 
diagnostic naming conventions and evaluation criteria according to 
modern medical practice.
1. Removal of ``Diseases of the Nose and Throat''
    VA proposes to remove the heading ``Diseases of the Nose and 
Throat.'' As discussed in more detail below, VA is relocating DCs 6502 
through 6524, currently located under this heading, to 38 CFR 4.87, as 
they share similarities in features, impairment assessment, and 
severity levels. Such similarities are more closely related to the 
disability criteria that VA will propose for the ear, nose, and throat 
schedule.
2. General Rating Formula for Respiratory Conditions
    VA also proposes adding the General Rating Formula to the beginning 
of the respiratory system. The proposed formula incorporates much of 
the criteria currently used by several DCs for respiratory conditions, 
notably DCs 6600, 6603, 6604, 6825 through 6833, and 6840 through 6845. 
VA designed the proposed General Rating Formula to more succinctly 
organize the Rating Schedule by referring applicable DCs to a single 
formula, rather than repeating the same formula after each DC to which 
it applies. The introduction of the General Rating Formula for 
Respiratory Conditions revises the criteria for multiple DCs.
    VA derived the model for the General Rating Formula from the table 
entitled ``Pulmonary Dysfunction'' in Guides to the Evaluation of 
Permanent Impairment 88 (Robert D. Rondinelli et al. eds., 6th ed. 
2008). The table defines four different levels of impairment severity 
based on FVC, FEV-1, DLCO (SB), Maximum Oxygen Consumption (VO2 Max), 
and METs. VA proposes to modify these levels to rate respiratory 
conditions. The General Rating Formula VA proposes will utilize common 
PFT findings, such as FEV-1, FVC, the ratio of FEV-1 to FVC (FEV-1/
FVC), and DLCO (SB), and continue to utilize most of the levels found 
throughout current Sec.  4.97, as they differ only slightly from the 
levels found in the ``Pulmonary Dysfunction'' table and are generally 
more advantageous to veterans.
    One change from current Sec.  4.97, however, is to require less of 
a reduction in FEV-1 to qualify for 100 percent disability rating (an 
FEV-1 of less than 45 percent of predicted value, rather than the 
current 40 percent), which is advantageous to veterans. Another is to 
no longer provide a 100 percent rating for outpatient oxygen therapy: 
The need for oxygen is not a sufficiently accurate measure of the 
severity of a disability to allow for a consistent evaluation without 
regard to other more objective measures.
    VA also proposes to adjust the values for maximum oxygen 
consumption, which has a fixed relationship to METs (every 3.5 ml of 
oxygen consumed is equal to 1 MET). This modification will ensure 
equity with values already used in other body systems using METs to 
evaluate disability (in particular, the cardiovascular system). 
Finally, VA proposes to continue utilizing FEV-1/FVC as a PFT that can 
be used for rating purposes despite its absence from the ``Pulmonary 
Dysfunction'' table.
    Note (1) to the proposed General Rating Formula will instruct 
rating personnel to base the impairment assessment on the criteria that 
reflects the greatest impairment and, therefore, the greatest 
evaluation. Note (2) will address combined ratings, consistent with 
proposed Sec.  4.96(a).
    Finally, VA will add Note (3) to the proposed General Rating 
Formula, which will address comorbid respiratory and cardiovascular 
disabilities in accord with proposed Sec.  4.96(d). As noted above, 
raters may use METs to evaluate the respiratory disability under Sec.  
4.97 or the cardiovascular disability under Sec.  4.104, but not both.
    It should be noted that the General Rating Formula does not 
reference cor pulmonale and right ventricular hypertrophy. Under 
current Sec.  4.97, some evaluation criteria reference cor pulmonale 
and right ventricular hypertrophy without an associated respiratory 
system disability. One of VA's goals with this revision is to ensure 
that all evaluation criteria within Sec.  4.97 contain at least one 
element of respiratory disability. Thus, under the proposed rule, any 
cardiovascular disabilities incorporated within Sec.  4.97 will be 
associated with at least one respiratory disability as part of any and 
all evaluation criteria.
3. Other Changes to Sec.  4.97
    In addition to incorporating the General Rating Formula, VA 
proposes a number of organizational changes to the respiratory system. 
Specifically, VA proposes removing the current headings and subheadings 
and reorganizing the VASRD Respiratory System under two broad headings. 
The first heading will be ``Intrinsic Lung Diseases.'' VA proposes to 
add seven subheadings under Intrinsic Lung Diseases: ``Airway Disorders 
(Trachea, Bronchi),'' ``Tuberculous Lung Diseases,'' ``Vascular Lung 
Diseases,'' ``Lung Neoplasms,'' ``Bacterial Lung Diseases,'' 
``Parenchymal Lung Disease (Including Interstitium and Alveolar 
Spaces),'' and ``Mycotic Lung Diseases.'' The second heading that VA 
proposes is ``Other Respiratory Conditions.'' VA will include these 
remaining respiratory diagnoses in accordance with modern medical 
practice. See Peter D. Wagner et al., ``Ventilation, Blood Flow and Gas 
Exchange,'' Murray and Nadel's Textbook of Respiratory Medicine 53-88 
(5th ed. 2010).
    To help the reader understand VA's proposed changes to the 
individual DCs within the Respiratory System, VA has organized the 
following discussion by the seven subheadings under Intrinsic

[[Page 8477]]

Lung Diseases in the order of their appearance. VA will then discuss 
changes within the proposed Other Respiratory Conditions.
i. Airway Disorders (Trachea, Bronchi)
    Current DCs 6600 through 6604 shall appear in their current order 
under this proposed rule after the subheading Airway Disorders 
(Trachea, Bronchi). VA proposes to modify the rating criteria for DCs 
6600, 6601, 6603, and 6604 to refer to the General Rating Formula, 
which assesses severity using current medical understanding. As 
discussed above, VA is proposing a General Rating Formula to simplify 
evaluations and expand the criteria upon which to evaluate respiratory 
conditions, to include FEV-1 and METs. Regarding DC 6602, bronchial 
asthma, VA proposes to maintain most of the current evaluation criteria 
but reorganize how the VASRD presents the various criteria for improved 
usefulness. This reorganization is similar to the proposed General 
Rating Formula: Each evaluation requires meeting at least one of its 
criteria.
ii. Tuberculous Lung Diseases
    VA proposes removing the heading ``Diseases of the Lung and Pleura-
Tuberculosis'' and replacing it with ``Tuberculous Lung Diseases.'' VA 
proposes to retain the current subheadings, ``Ratings for Pulmonary 
Tuberculosis Entitled on August 19, 1968,'' ``Ratings for Pulmonary 
Tuberculosis Initially Evaluated After August 19, 1968,'' and their 
corresponding DCs. These changes organize the DCs along current medical 
practice.
    VA will not substantively alter the criteria for evaluating 
tuberculosis for individuals entitled on August 19, 1968, though it 
will delete a statutory reference that no longer exists. It also will 
not substantively change the current rating instructions for chronic, 
active pulmonary tuberculosis (DC 6730). However, VA proposes to amend 
the evaluation criteria for DC 6731, Chronic, inactive primary 
pulmonary tuberculosis. The current criteria evaluate residuals ``as 
interstitial lung disease, restrictive lung disease, or, when 
obstructive lung disease is the major residual, as chronic bronchitis 
(DC 6600).'' The amended rule would refer specifically to the General 
Rating Formula and provide notes consistent with the language of 
current DC 6731. VA proposes this change because the General Rating 
Formula provides sufficient rating criteria for assessing residual lung 
function of this disorder. VA proposes no substantive change to DC 
6732.
iii. Vascular Lung Diseases
    VA proposes to replace the current heading, ``Nontuberculous 
diseases,'' with the subheading ``Vascular Lung Diseases.'' This 
arrangement will form the third subheading under ``Intrinsic Lung 
Diseases.'' VA also proposes that DC 6817, presently ``Pulmonary 
vascular disease,'' be renamed as ``Pulmonary thromboembolic disease.'' 
The new name reflects current medical terminology for the same 
condition. See Timothy A. Morris and Peter F. Fedullo, ``Pulmonary 
Thromboembolism,'' Murray and Nadel's Textbook of Respiratory Medicine 
1186 (5th ed. 2010).
    VA proposes the following changes to the criteria of DC 6817: (1) 
Removing ``primary pulmonary hypertension'' from the 100 percent 
evaluation criteria, because it will be rated under new DC 6849, (2) 
removing references to cor pulmonale, which can be adequately evaluated 
under the proposed General Rating Formula, (3) recharacterizing the 
current note as Note (1), (4) adding a note (Note (2)) prohibiting 
separate evaluations for pulmonary thromboembolic disease with right 
ventricular hypertrophy and selected comorbid cardiovascular conditions 
in order to avoid pyramiding, and (5) adding a note (Note (3)) 
outlining when a rating under DC 6817 can be combined with other 
ratings under Sec.  4.97.
    Additionally, VA proposes adding a new DC 6849 for ``Pulmonary 
hypertension.'' Currently, VA rates pulmonary hypertension analogously 
to other respiratory conditions. However, this common condition has its 
own features and treatments, so evaluations analogous to other 
respiratory DCs may be inadequate or inappropriate. As indicated 
previously, medicine assesses impairment by changes in right 
ventricular diameter, B-natriuretic levels, and mean pulmonary artery 
pressure. The rating criterion VA proposes for DC 6849 applies such 
measurements to this unique respiratory condition. VA proposes four 
levels of disability, similar to the levels of the proposed General 
Rating Formula. Where rating criteria METs levels conflict with other 
METs levels found within the cardiovascular system, the conflicting 
METs levels will conform to those found within the cardiovascular 
system. See Rondinelli, supra at 71-73.
    Three notes would accompany DC 6849. The first would state that 
acute pulmonary hypertension is not a disability for ratings purposes. 
VA compensates disabilities that impair earning capacity, not temporary 
conditions that generally do not impact earning capacity. See 38 U.S.C. 
1155; Davis v. Principi, 276 F.3d 1341, 1345-47 (Fed. Cir. 2002); see 
also Moore v. Shinseki, 555 F.3d 1369, 1373 (Fed. Cir. 2009). The 
second note would prohibit separate evaluations for pulmonary 
hypertension and selected coexisting cardiovascular conditions; 
instead, one rating would be assigned either under DC 6849 or under the 
appropriate cardiovascular DC (38 CFR 4.104), whichever represents the 
predominant disability. Compensating the same disability under two 
different body systems would represent pyramiding, which is 
impermissible under 38 CFR 4.14. The third note would outline when a 
rating under DC 6849 can be combined with other ratings under Sec.  
4.97.
iv. Lung Neoplasms
    VA next proposes to reorganize DCs 6819, ``Neoplasms, malignant, 
any specified part of respiratory system exclusive of skin growths,'' 
and 6820, ``Neoplasms, benign, any specified part of respiratory 
system,'' under the proposed subheading ``Lung Neoplasms.'' DCs 6819 
and 6820 are currently listed under ``Nontuberculous Diseases.''
    VA also proposes to modify the note for DC 6819, which currently 
instructs rating personnel to evaluate residuals six months after the 
cessation of all forms of active treatment. VA intends to refer rating 
personnel to the General Rating Formula because this evaluation tool 
provides the most appropriate criteria for assessing residual 
impairment from a malignant lung neoplasm. Potential residuals include, 
but are not limited to, removal (resection) of a lung (in part or in 
whole) or persistent pleural effusions.
    Similarly, VA proposes that DC 6820, benign neoplasms of the 
respiratory system, be rated under the General Rating Formula. 
Currently, DC 6820 directs rating personnel to ``Evaluate using an 
appropriate respiratory analogy.'' The General Rating Formula provides 
a broad range of alternative criteria with which to assess most 
respiratory conditions.
v. Bacterial Lung Diseases
    VA proposes renaming the heading ``Bacterial Infections of the 
Lung'' to the subheading ``Bacterial Lung Diseases.'' DCs 6822 through 
6824 will continue to appear under Bacterial Lung Diseases. VA does not 
propose any substantive criteria changes for the rating formula for 
these DCs.

[[Page 8478]]

vi. Parenchymal Lung Disease (Including Interstitium and Alveolar 
Spaces)
    VA proposes to remove the current subheading, ``Interstitial Lung 
Disease,'' to add instead, ``Parenchymal Lung Disease (Including 
Interstitium and Alveolar Spaces).'' VA also proposes to relocate DC 
6846 (Sarcoidosis) from the current ``Restrictive Lung Disease'' 
subheading to the newly proposed ``Parenchymal Lung Disease (Including 
Interstitium and Alveolar Spaces)'' subheading, as sarcoidosis is 
medically-categorized as a parenchymal lung disease. This new 
subheading reflects modern medical terminology for the associated DCs. 
In addition, VA proposes to rate these conditions under the General 
Rating Formula. This change will incorporate current medical standards 
for assessing impairment. By applying the General Rating Formula, VA 
proposes to expand the types of PFT results, to include FEV-1/FVC, and 
METs, to evaluate these conditions.
    In addition, VA proposes to include a note for DCs 6825 through 
6833 and DC 6846. This note instructs rating personnel to add an 
additional 10 percent to any rating during certain kinds of treatment, 
specifically, oral prednisone greater than 20 milligrams (mg) daily, or 
daily second-line immunosuppressive medication (e.g., non-steroidal 
agents; such immunomodulatory drugs as azathioprine or 
cyclophosphamide; anti-fibrotic agents such as colchicine; 
penicillamine; or biologic agents such as etanercept). VA proposes to 
add this additional 10 percent rating because the treatments themselves 
may result in adverse effects involving the blood-forming organs or the 
gastrointestinal system. See M. Selman et al., ``Idiopathic 
Interstitial Pneumonias,'' Murray and Nadel's Textbook of Respiratory 
Medicine 1380-81 (5th ed. 2010).
    VA also proposes to rename DC 6825, ``Diffuse interstitial fibrosis 
(interstitial pneumonitis, fibrosing alveolitis), to ''Diffuse 
interstitial fibrosis (interstitial pneumonitis, fibrosing alveolitis, 
idiopathic fibrosis).'' The proposed name reflects current medical 
terminology. See id. at 1370.
vii. Mycotic Lung Diseases
    VA also proposes to rename ``Mycotic Lung Disease'' to ``Mycotic 
Lung Diseases'' and organize DCs 6834 through 6839 under this 
subheading. No substantive criteria changes are proposed for these 
diseases.
viii. Other Respiratory Conditions
    The final organizational change VA proposes for the respiratory 
system is assembling all remaining respiratory disabilities under the 
heading ``Other Respiratory Conditions.'' VA will arrange DCs 6840 
through 6847 under this heading.
    In addition to moving these DCs under the new heading, VA proposes 
to rename DCs 6841 and 6842. Specifically, VA intends to rename DC 
6841, currently ``Spinal cord injury with respiratory insufficiency,'' 
as ``Respiratory insufficiency due to spinal cord injury.'' As for DC 
6842, ``Kyphoscoliosis, pectus excavatum, pectus carinatum,'' VA 
proposes to rename it as ``Pulmonary disease secondary to 
kyphoscoliosis, pectus excavatum, or pectus carinatum.'' Renaming these 
DCs clarifies that the primary disability is related to the respiratory 
system.
    VA proposes that DCs 6840 through 6846 be rated under the General 
Rating Formula. This proposed change modifies the current criteria by, 
most notably, adding FVC and METs as additional measures. This proposed 
change favors veterans because it allows additional, alternative 
criteria to assess disability that do not currently exist in these DCs. 
As previously discussed, VA proposes to change these criteria to 
reflect current medical standards for assessing the severity of 
impairment.
    VA also proposes to modernize the rating criteria for DC 6847, 
``Sleep Apnea Syndromes (Obstructive, Central, Mixed)'' and retitle 
that DC as ``Sleep Apnea Syndromes (Obstructive, Central, or Mixed)''. 
The discipline of sleep medicine has greatly evolved since VA published 
the existing criteria. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), 
founded since then, conducted in-depth, peer-reviewed research in 
conjunction with its partners to develop scientifically-refined 
criteria regarding the definition, measurement, and treatment of sleep 
apnea. Sleep apnea may be defined as complaints of unintentional sleep 
episodes and/or awakenings and/or snoring associated with an apnea-
hypopnea index (AHI) equal to or greater than 5 per hour or, 
alternatively, an asymptomatic patient with an AHI greater than 15 per 
hour. See Richard B. Berry, Fundamentals of Sleep Medicine 238 (2012). 
Additional findings supporting a diagnosis of sleep apnea include 
oxygen desaturation greater than 4 percent and/or a reduction in 
airflow below 70 percent. Such measurements can evaluate the 
effectiveness of treatment intervention or lifestyle modifications such 
as weight loss.
    VA proposes to extensively revise the rating criteria for sleep 
apnea to primarily provide compensation that is more compatible with 
earning impairment than the current criteria. The current criteria 
evaluate based upon treatment rather than actual impairment. VA 
currently assigns higher ratings to individuals when their physicians 
prescribe more intensive therapies, such as continuous airway pressure 
(CPAP) machines, without regard to whether individuals first tried more 
conservative therapies, such as weight loss or oral appliances, or what 
actual impairment continues following use of CPAP machines. As 
discussed below, VA's proposed criteria will focus on the result rather 
than the type of treatment. Hence, individuals whose treatments are 
equally effective will receive equal disability ratings, regardless of 
the treatments. Individuals for whom treatment similarly fails (or is 
only partially effective) will also receive similar ratings. These 
proposed changes for sleep apnea comply with 38 U.S.C. 1155 that the 
VASRD ratings reflect average losses in earning capacity.
    Specifically, VA proposes to assign a 0 percent evaluation when 
sleep apnea syndrome is asymptomatic, with or without treatment. VA 
would assign a 10 percent evaluation when treatment yields ``incomplete 
relief.'' VA would assign ratings above 10 percent (e.g., 50 and 100 
percent) only when treatment is either ineffective or the veteran is 
unable to use the prescribed treatment due to comorbid conditions. VA 
would assign a 100 percent evaluation only if there is also end-organ 
damage. VA proposes to include an informational note that defines and 
gives examples of qualifying comorbid conditions, i.e., conditions 
that, in the opinion of a qualified medical provider, directly impede 
or prevent the use of, or implementation of, a recognized form of 
treatment intervention normally shown to be effective.
    VA proposes to add a new DC 6848 for ``Lung transplantation.'' Lung 
transplantation involves a unique treatment that is not addressed in 
the current Rating Schedule. This procedure for a service connected 
pulmonary condition results in significant disability that is not 
adequately captured by the current rating schedule. For one, recovery 
with pulmonary function testing performance usually takes about 12 
months. Yet outcome studies reveal significant variation in return to 
work time. This can be explained when you look at the two main 
populations receiving lung

[[Page 8479]]

transplants. There is a population who receive the lung transplant due 
to hereditary/genetic conditions that would preclude military service 
all together (such as cystic fibrosis), and another population who 
receive a lung transplant due to acquired conditions (such as chronic 
obstructive pulmonary disease). VA believes the population with lung 
transplantation due to acquired conditions is a better characterization 
of the population of veterans who might receive this procedure and thus 
would be eligible for compensation. On this basis, VA intends to assign 
a 100 percent evaluation for lung transplantation surgery, and for one 
year following discharge from the hospital for such surgery. 
Thereafter, consistent with other respiratory conditions, VA will base 
the evaluation on residuals according to the proposed General Rating 
Formula, but with a minimum evaluation of 30 percent. See Lisa Cicutto 
et al., ``Factors Affecting Attainment of Paid Employment After Lung 
Transplantation,'' 23 J. Heart Lung Transplant 481-86 (2004); see also 
Dmitry Tumin et al., ``Attained Functional Status Moderates Functional 
Outcomes of Return to Work After Lung Transplantation,'' 194 Lung 437-
45 (2016).

II. Ear, Nose, Throat, and Audiology Disabilities

    Otolaryngology is the field of medicine concerned with diseases of, 
and injury to, the ears, nose, and throat. Currently, the VASRD spreads 
these diseases and conditions among several systems. This disbursement 
of diseases and conditions amongst several body systems does not 
represent the current scientific and medical understanding of the 
specific anatomy, etiology, and disabling effect of diseases and 
conditions of the ears, nose, and throat. Reorganization of these 
diseases and conditions to reflect current medical and scientific 
practice improves rating efficiency and effectiveness by allowing for 
easy identification of the medical source for each rating and reducing 
the need to rely on analogous codes when evaluating certain 
disabilities.
    The system titled ``Impairment of Auditory Acuity,'' found at 38 
CFR 4.85-4.87, already includes conditions of hearing and the ear, 
including the symptom of tinnitus (ringing in the ear), hearing loss, 
vestibular disorders (dizziness), neoplasms (tumors), and infections. 
For the reasons discussed above, VA proposes to rename the body system 
``Ear, Nose, Throat, and Auditory Disabilities'' and relocate 16 DCs 
from Sec.  4.97, the Respiratory System, to Sec.  4.87. Under Sec.  
4.87, VA will redesignate DCs 6502 through 6524 as DCs 6220 through 
6235, respectively. VA discusses in more detail below any changes to 
the sections and/or DCs under this new arrangement (e.g., Sec. Sec.  
4.85 through 4.87).

A. Audiology and Hearing Loss

1. Defining Hearing Loss Disability
    VA considered expanding the current definition of hearing loss, 
located at 38 CFR 3.385, to include the concept of acoustic ``notches'' 
(see below). However, VA concluded that the current definition of 
hearing loss is sufficient and fair for evaluating levels of 
disability.
    Noise exposure is often associated with a pattern of hearing loss 
across frequencies referred to as ``noise notches'' or a ``notch.'' 
According to a 2006 Institute of Medicine (IOM) study, a noise notch 
typically shows hearing that is normal or nearly normal at lower 
frequencies (less than 2000 Hertz (Hz)), with worse hearing thresholds 
typically occurring at frequencies in the 3000-6000 Hz region, with 
better hearing thresholds at 8000 Hz. IOM, Noise and Military Service: 
Implications for Hearing Loss and Tinnitus 38 (The National Academies 
Press, 2006). A notched pattern in the 3000-6000 Hz frequency region, 
together with supporting evidence from a detailed case history, can 
lead to the diagnosis of noise-induced hearing loss. However, this 
characteristic pattern in the high frequencies is not limited to noise-
induced hearing loss. The high-frequency hearing loss pattern from 
aging is indistinguishable from the cumulative effects of noise-induced 
hearing loss. See Linda M. Luxon, ``The clinical diagnosis of noise 
induced hearing loss,'' Biological Effects of Noise 83-113 (Deepak 
Prasher and Linda Luxon eds. 1998); Victor Osei-Lah and L.H. Yeoh, 
``High-frequency audiometric notch: an outpatient clinic survey,'' 
49(2) Int'l J. of Audiology 95-98 (2010).
    More recent publications examined noise notches in the veteran 
population to again define the presence or absence of a noise notch 
more objectively than by simply relying on the visual pattern of high 
frequency hearing loss. See, e.g., Richard H. Wilson and Rachel 
McArdle, ``Characteristics of the Audiometric 4,000 Hz Notch (744,553 
veterans) and 3,000, 4,000 and 6,000 Hz Notches (539,932 veterans),'' 
50 J. of Rehabilitative Research and Development 111-32 (2013); Ross 
Coles et al., ``Guidelines on the diagnosis of noise-induced hearing 
loss for medicolegal purposes,'' 25(4) Clin. Otolaryngology 264-73 
(2000). However, the observed pattern of hearing loss in these studies 
neither rebutted nor confirmed noise injuries. In the Wilson and 
McArdle study, nothing indicated that notched audiograms were 
characteristic of audiograms in veterans of any age. Similarly, Coles 
et al. noted that the presence of notches was not indicative of noise 
exposure because such configurations were found in people with no 
significant noise exposure and not in persons with known exposure. 
Given the results of these studies, VA concludes that including notches 
in a definition of hearing loss disability would not rationally justify 
compensation benefits to veterans. Therefore, VA proposes no 
substantive changes to the current definition in Sec.  3.385.
2. Proposed Changes to Audiology
    Although VA will not alter its definition of hearing loss for 
compensation purposes, it proposes several updates of the current 
terminology found in 38 CFR 3.385, 4.85-4.86. VA also proposes a note 
to Sec.  4.85 adding a 10 percent evaluation for noncompensable hearing 
loss with tinnitus present, where tinnitus is related to the diagnosis 
of hearing loss.
i. Terminology Updates
    VA proposes a number of nonsubstantive changes for readability and 
to update terminology according to current medicine. VA proposes to 
replace the terms ``speech recognition'' and ``speech discrimination'' 
with ``word recognition'' in Sec.  3.385 and throughout Sec.  4.85. 
Although used interchangeably, the term most frequently used today is 
``word recognition.''
    VA also proposes to replace the term ``hearing impairment'' or 
``impaired hearing'' with ``hearing loss'' throughout Part 3 and Part 
4, as ``hearing loss'' is more commonly used today.
    In addition, VA proposes to change the spelling of ``puretone'' 
throughout Sec. Sec.  4.85 and 4.86, to include tables VI and VIA. 
According to Dorland's Illustrated Medical Dictionary 179 (32d ed. 
2012), two words form the correct spelling, i.e., ``pure tone'' or, as 
a compound adjective before the noun, ``pure-tone threshold.''
    During the October 2011 audiology forum, VA received a 
recommendation to clarify the units that it uses to measures hearing 
loss. Therefore, VA also proposes to add to 4.85, paragraph (a), 
``Hearing levels are measured in decibels and expressed as dB HL.''
    Finally, VA proposes to replace the term ``rating veterans service 
representative'' in Sec.  4.86 with ``rating

[[Page 8480]]

activity.'' This terminology update recognizes that not all claims are 
adjudicated by a rating veterans service representative (RVSR); some 
decisions are rendered by a decision review officer (DRO) or another 
individual with the proper authority to adjudicate a claim for 
benefits. This terminology update does not otherwise change the 
application of the provisions in Sec.  4.86.
ii. Pure-Tone Air Conduction Threshold
    Currently, VA evaluates hearing loss using pure-tone thresholds, 
but no regulation specifies the type of measurement. Audiology pure-
tone threshold uses either air or bone conduction testing. See Joe 
Walter Kutz Jr. et al., ``Audiology Pure-Tone Testing,'' Medscape 
Reference, http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1822962-overview#showall (last visited July 24, 2018). VA proposes to clarify 
that pure-tone thresholds refer to air conduction thresholds throughout 
Sec. Sec.  3.385, 4.85, and 4.86, to include tables VI and VIA. VA 
chose this particular technique because it measures the usual mode of 
hearing. On the other hand, bone conduction testing is simply a 
diagnostic tool and one of a battery of tests by which audiologists 
determine the etiology and severity of hearing loss. To reflect this 
change, VA proposes to replace the term ``puretone threshold'' with 
``pure-tone air conduction threshold'' wherever it appears in 
Sec. Sec.  4.85 and 4.86. Similarly, VA also proposes to replace the 
references to ``auditory'' thresholds in Sec.  3.385 with ``pure-tone 
auditory air conduction'' thresholds.
iii. Word Recognition Testing
    Current Sec.  4.85(c) provides that ``Table VIA will be used when 
the examiner certifies that use of the speech discrimination test is 
not appropriate because of language difficulties, inconsistent speech 
discrimination scores, etc., or when indicated under the provisions of 
Sec.  4.86.'' VA proposes to clarify the term ``language difficulties'' 
with the addition of the phrase ``e.g., English non-fluency.'' Several 
VA audiology experts with whom the Veterans Benefits Administration 
consulted noted that the most common language difficulty in service 
members is that their first language is not English, thus invalidating 
the speech discrimination scores. Additionally, an increased number of 
service members have cognitive difficulties resulting from traumatic 
brain injuries. These injuries result in decreased speech 
discrimination scores. See, e.g., Henry L. Lew et al., ``Audiology 
dysfunction in Traumatic Brain Injury,'' 44(7) J. of Rehabilitation 
Research & Development 921-28 (2007). Therefore, VA also proposes to 
add ``cognitive difficulties'' to the list of reasons why word 
recognition testing may be inappropriate.
iv. Percentage Evaluation for Hearing Loss (Diagnostic Code 6100)
    VA proposes to revise the evaluation criteria for this DC in order 
to provide (1) a 10 percent rating for tinnitus associated with 
service-connected, noncompensable hearing loss, and (2) two notes 
pertaining to tinnitus. Tinnitus is defined as the perception of sound 
in the absence of an external source. In many cases, the patient cannot 
identify the onset or cause of the tinnitus. J.L. Stouffer and Richard 
S. Tyler, ``Characterization of tinnitus by tinnitus patients,'' 55(3) 
J. of Speech and Hearing Disorders, 439-53 (Aug. 1990). However, 
current medicine reflects that tinnitus likely results from abnormal 
neural activity at some point or points in the auditory pathway, which 
is incorrectly interpreted by the brain as an actual sound. Id. As a 
result, it is a symptom associated with an underlying condition, such 
as hearing loss, Meniere's disease, traumatic brain injury and cerebral 
atherosclerosis, not an independent disease. Id.
    Recognition of tinnitus for evaluation purposes dates back to at 
least 1925, when raters were instructed to ``add 15 [percent] to loss 
of hearing as a combined rating.'' ``The Schedule for Rating of 
Disability Ratings,'' U.S. Veterans' Bureau, Table II, p.59 (1925 ed.). 
Accordingly, tinnitus was rated in conjunction with hearing loss, 
rather than a disease in and of itself. In a final rule published in 
1976, VA's rating criteria recognized tinnitus for evaluation purposes 
when ``[p]ersistent as a symptom of head injury, concussion, or 
acoustic trauma.'' 41 FR 11291, 11298 (Mar. 18, 1976). In a final rule 
published in 1999, in part motivated by an effort to standardize 
tinnitus evaluations beyond these three specific injuries, the 
regulation was changed to award a single 10 percent evaluation without 
mention of the underlying condition resulting in tinnitus. 64 FR 25202, 
25206 (May 11, 1999). While not intended by VA, this rulemaking created 
the impression that tinnitus is an independent condition, rather than a 
symptom associated with an underlying condition. VA's intent with the 
presently proposed revision is to accurately restore the medically-
supported relationship between tinnitus and an underlying pathology, 
consistent with current medical practice.
    VA proposes to evaluate tinnitus only as part of its underlying 
pathology and to delete DC 6260 entirely. In other words, tinnitus will 
be compensated through application of DCs 6100, 6204, 6205, 8045, 8046, 
or 9305, depending on its service-connected cause. For tinnitus 
associated with service-connected hearing loss in particular, the 
presence of tinnitus generally does not impact earning capacity beyond 
what is already contemplated at the compensable levels of hearing loss, 
though VA recognizes that the presence of tinnitus combined with 
noncompensable hearing loss could have more than a 0% impact on earning 
capacity. Thus, DC 6100 will provide a 10% evaluation for tinnitus 
associated with hearing loss only when hearing loss is noncompensable 
(only when hearing loss, on its own, does not warrant a 10% evaluation 
or higher). If hearing loss is compensable (warranting a 10% evaluation 
or greater), an additional 10% evaluation for tinnitus associated with 
the hearing loss shall not be assigned.
    To that end, VA will add two notes under DC 6100. The first note 
will list examples of which disabilities contemplate tinnitus as a 
symptom of a given underlying pathology. The second note will provide 
that tinnitus is only compensated as part of an underlying service-
connected condition. VA notes that this proposal will have no impact on 
veterans currently in receipt of service connection for tinnitus under 
DC 6260; these evaluations are governed under the provisions of 38 CFR 
3.951(a).
v. DC 6100 and Extraschedular Consideration
    In Doucette v. Shulkin, 28 Vet. App. 366, 373 (2017), the U.S. 
Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims noted the potential value if VA 
``provide[d] additional guidance on what symptoms the rating criteria 
[for hearing loss] contemplate.'' Doucette involved a veteran who 
argued for extraschedular consideration under 38 CFR 3.321(b)(1) 
because his hearing loss resulted in difficulty distinguishing sounds 
in a crowded environment, locating the source of sounds, understanding 
conventional speech, hearing the television, and using the telephone. 
Id. at 371. The court held that such functional effects of decreased 
hearing and difficulty understanding speech in an everyday environment 
were contemplated by the schedular rating criteria, id. at 369, 371-72, 
though a dissenting judge argued that the ``criteria are inadequate to 
contemplate a veteran's functional effects and entire disability 
picture.'' Id. at 374 (Schoelen, J., dissenting).

[[Page 8481]]

    In response to the court's statement concerning additional 
guidance, we clarify here that DC 6100 contemplates all natural or 
expected effects of decreased hearing. It is expected and natural that 
a veteran with hearing loss like Mr. Doucette will, for example, 
experience difficulties distinguishing sounds or using the telephone. 
The schedule was designed to determine a veteran's level of hearing 
loss disability through objective testing and match it to a disability 
rating that compensates for the average impairment in earning capacity 
associated with that level of disability. 38 U.S.C. 1155; 38 CFR 4.1, 
4.10, 4.85. To the extent a particular veteran's hearing loss may seem 
more impactful than the rating provided, that is characteristic of a 
schedule that compensates for ``the average impairments of earning 
capacity''--it is not an indication that the schedule is inadequate. 38 
U.S.C. 1155.
    When a symptom of a hearing loss disability properly rated under 
this code is unusual or exceptional for that disability, and not 
contemplated by the code, there are alternative methods to ensure that 
a veteran is adequately compensated. First, if the symptom of the 
hearing loss disability implicates a disability addressed elsewhere in 
the schedule, an evaluation may be appropriate under the listed 
diagnostic code which accounts for the disability. If the symptom 
implicates a disability that is not listed in the schedule, an 
evaluation may be appropriate by analogy using a closely related 
disease or injury, giving due consideration to the functions affected, 
anatomical localization, and symptomatology. 38 CFR 4.20. In such a 
case, because another diagnostic code in the schedule addresses a 
disability analogous to the disability implicated by the symptom, the 
schedule is not inadequate to rate the veteran's disability. Finally, 
if the unusual or exceptional symptom of the hearing loss disability 
does not implicate any other provision or code in the schedule (either 
directly or through analogy), the schedule may not contemplate the 
hearing loss disability presented; and 38 CFR 3.321(b)(1) may be 
considered.

B. Ear, Nose, and Throat Disabilities--Proposed Changes to Sec.  4.87

    As noted above, VA proposes to relocate a number of conditions from 
Sec.  4.97 to Sec.  4.87. It also intends to update several of the 
relocated codes, as well as DCs already included in Sec.  4.87, to 
ensure that the medical descriptions reflect the most current 
knowledge, practice, and standards of care, and that the criteria 
determining the levels of compensation provide fair and accurate 
benchmarks for veterans. As VA intends to relocate a number of 
conditions affecting the nose, throat and larynx (voice box) to Sec.  
4.87, VA proposes to retitle this section from ``Schedule of ratings--
ear'' to ``Schedule of ratings--ear, nose, and throat.''
1. Diagnostic Code 6200
    VA proposes to revise the note under this DC from ``Evaluate 
hearing loss, and complications such as labyrinthitis, tinnitus, facial 
nerve paralysis, or bone loss of skull, separately.'' to ``Evaluate 
hearing loss and complications such as labyrinthitis, facial nerve 
paralysis, or bone loss of skull, separately.'' This revision is 
necessary as tinnitus associated with hearing loss is now contemplated 
under DC 6100.
2. Diagnostic Code 6202
    VA currently evaluates otosclerosis under DC 6202. To ensure 
greater consistency in decision making, VA proposes to rename this code 
to include residuals of stapedectomy and stapedotomy. Surgeons perform 
these procedures involving the middle ear to prevent further 
deterioration of hearing caused by otosclerosis by improving the 
movement of sound to the inner ear. The primary residual of 
stapedectomy and stapedotomy is continued hearing loss, albeit without 
further deterioration of hearing, so VA may evaluate these conditions 
similarly to otosclerosis by the degree of the hearing loss. See S. 
George Lesinski, ``Causes of Conductive Hearing Loss After Stapedectomy 
or Stapedotomy: A Prospective Study of 279 Consecutive Surgical 
Revisions,'' 23(3) Otology & Neurotology 281-88 (May 2002).
3. Diagnostic Code 6204
    Peripheral vestibular disorders (DC 6204) may originate in one or 
both ears and may cause varying degrees of disability. B. Gurr and N. 
Moffat, ``Psychological consequences of vertigo and the effectiveness 
of vestibular rehabilitation for brain injury patients,'' 15 Brain 
Injury 387 (2001); Hannelore K. Neuhauser et al., ``Burden of dizziness 
and vertigo in the community,'' 168 Archives of Internal Medicine 2118 
(2008). DC 6204 currently evaluates such disorders using only dizziness 
and staggering (i.e., alteration of gait). VA therefore proposes to 
amend DC 6204 to better reflect the full scope of these disorders and 
their effect on a veteran's ability to work and engage in other 
activities that impact earning capacity.
    Specifically, VA proposes to provide increasingly higher ratings 
depending on the impact of a veteran's vestibular disorder on 
activities of self-care. VA may evaluate self-care activities for the 
purposes of this DC using assessments by qualified health care 
providers that address the capacity to bathe, dress, eat, manage 
hygiene, and/or move the body from place to place. VA will also 
evaluate the ability to work, to include whether the veteran requires 
significant modification and/or accommodation to accomplish tasks. 
Additionally, VA intends to expand the current disability evaluation 
levels from two (10 and 30 percent) to three (10, 30, and 100 percent); 
the 100 percent evaluation will include veterans whose vestibular 
disorders severely impact their life and result in the substantial 
inability to work.
    The proposed criteria provide a 10 percent evaluation for a 
documented vestibular disorder with symptoms during the last six months 
that require brief and temporary modification of activity but do not 
prevent continuation of normal activities such as self-care and/or 
work. VA proposes a 30 percent evaluation for symptoms that occur with 
sufficient frequency to require routine limitation in activities, which 
the individual can overcome with effort and some modification and/or 
accommodation. VA proposes a 100 percent evaluation for symptoms that 
result in an inability to independently perform self-care and/or work 
activities, even with modification of activity or accommodation. 
Finally, VA proposes two notes for this DC--one defining self-care 
activities and another continuing this DC's current requirement of 
objective findings supporting the diagnosis.
4. Diagnostic Code 6205
    Originating in the inner ear, the specific causes of Meniere's 
syndrome (DC 6205) remain unclear. However, the effects, which may 
include vertigo, tinnitus, hearing loss, and unstable gait, may impact 
a veteran's earning capacity. The current rating criteria for DC 6205 
provide for 30, 60, and 100 percent evaluations depending upon the 
presence of hearing loss and the frequency of attacks of vertigo and 
cerebellar gait. Alternatively, rating personnel must separately 
evaluate vertigo (as a peripheral vestibular disorder) and hearing loss 
if a higher combined rating for Meniere's syndrome results.
    VA does not intend to significantly alter the current rating 
criteria for DC 6205. However, it does propose to change evaluative 
criteria so they are consistent and clear. VA proposes to alter the 
frequency for the 100 percent evaluation from ``more than once

[[Page 8482]]

weekly'' to ``five or more times a month'' to be consistent with the 
monthly timeframes provided in the 30 and 60 percent levels. VA also 
proposes to eliminate the current reference to ``attacks of vertigo and 
cerebellar gait.'' Individuals with Meniere's syndrome experience 
attacks of dizziness (or vertigo) that appear suddenly but may or may 
not result in gait disturbance. See ``Meniere's disease,'' National 
Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/balance/pages/meniere.aspx (last visited July 
24, 2018). Occasionally, however, an individual's vertigo is so extreme 
and frequent that it results in disequilibrium or gait instability. Id. 
Therefore, VA proposes to include vertigo in all evaluation levels, 
with the only reference to gait being the 100 percent evaluation. VA 
proposes a 100 percent evaluation for hearing loss with either 
persistent disequilibrium and gait instability, or with vertigo 
occurring five or more times a month. Finally, VA proposes to 
reorganize the criteria within each evaluation for improved clarity and 
usability. Specifically, VA notes that each evaluation currently 
includes hearing loss. The crucial point is the frequency of vertigo 
or, for a 100-percent evaluation, the presence of persistent 
disequilibrium. VA proposes to reorganize the criteria to emphasize 
this.
    VA intends to amend the current note to DC 6205 and redesignate it 
as Note (3). For reasons explained in this preamble's discussion of 
tinnitus, proposed Note (3) will no longer include any reference to a 
separate evaluation for tinnitus.
    To ensure consistent evaluations, VA proposes to include a new Note 
(1), which will indicate that the Meniere's diagnosis must be made by a 
otolaryngologist or neurologist. Id. The requirement for a specialist 
evaluation is based on the complexity of the diagnostic work up. This 
work up is best performed by those whose focus is on this area of 
medical care, as opposed to a provider without focused expertise, to 
ensure the proper diagnostic assessment is made. In addition, VA 
proposes a new Note (2) to direct rating personnel to calculate the 
average vertigo frequency using a six-month period. This period ensures 
that the assigned evaluation represents the average level of 
impairment, taking into account occasional flare-ups that may not 
represent a true increase in the overall severity of the disease.
5. Diagnostic Code 6260
    As previously noted under revisions to Sec.  4.85, VA proposes to 
remove DC 6260.
6. Relocated Diagnostic Codes
    As previously noted, VA proposes to move 16 conditions from Sec.  
4.97 (the Respiratory System) to Sec.  4.87 (the proposed ENT System). 
VA will redesignate these DCs, currently designated 6502 through 6524, 
as DCs 6220 through 6240, respectively. VA proposes to change the 
evaluation criteria for a number of these relocated DCs. However, VA 
proposes no substantive changes to the following codes: DC 6502, 
Septum, nasal, deviation of (proposed DC 6220); DC 6515, Laryngitis, 
tuberculous, active or inactive (proposed DC 6227); DC 6516, 
Laryngitis, chronic (proposed DC 6228); DC 6518, Laryngectomy, total 
(proposed DC 6229); DC 6519, Aphonia, complete organic (proposed DC 
6230); and DC 6521, Pharynx, injuries to (proposed DC 6232). VA will 
update accordingly any references to these DCs within other codes.
i. Diagnostic Code 6504
    In relocating DC 6504, loss of part of the nose or nasal scars, to 
Sec.  4.87, VA proposes to redesignate it as DC 6221. The current 
criteria for DC 6504 assign 10 or 30 percent evaluations based on the 
exposure of nasal passages, loss of ala (the wings of the nose), or 
other obvious disfigurement. This focus on loss of particular nasal 
parts, rather than on the overall quantifiable loss of nasal tissue 
and/or structure, may result in inconsistent evaluations for similarly 
disabling conditions. As such, VA proposes to assign evaluations based 
on defined loss of the nose (i.e., more or less than half). 
Additionally, because the use of nasal prosthetics often has a positive 
impact on an individual's psychosocial functioning, VA proposes to 
incorporate the mitigating value of any nasal prosthetics used. VA 
intends to provide for higher ratings when the loss is not amenable to 
the use of prosthesis. See Satyabodh S. Guttal et al., ``Interim 
Prosthetic Rehabilitation of a Patient Following Partial Rhinectomy: A 
Clinical Report,'' 4(4) European J. of Dentistry 482, 482-83 (Oct. 
2010).
    Under the proposed criteria, VA would assign a 0 percent evaluation 
for any loss or disfigurement of the nose for which a qualified medical 
provider does not require or recommend a prosthesis. VA would assign a 
10 percent evaluation for any loss of the nose for which a qualified 
medical provider requires or recommends a prosthesis and the patient is 
capable of using it. VA proposes a 20 percent evaluation for a loss 
that a prosthesis cannot treat (as documented by a qualified provider) 
and that loss involves less than 50 percent of the nose. Finally, VA 
proposes a 30 percent evaluation for a loss that a prosthesis cannot 
treat (as documented by a qualified provider) and that loss involves at 
least 50 percent or more of the nose. VA intends to retain the current 
note directing rating personnel to alternatively evaluate any loss or 
scar under DC 7800, disfiguring scars of the head, face, or neck.
ii. Diagnostic Codes 6510, 6511, 6512, 6513, and 6514
    Current DCs 6510 through 6514 all refer to various types of chronic 
sinusitis evaluated using the General Rating Formula for Sinusitis, 
located under DC 6514. VA proposes to redesignate these codes as DCs 
6222 through 6226, respectively, under Sec.  4.87; additionally, VA 
proposes to rename each code to reflect current medical terminology. VA 
proposes to rename the redesignated DC 6222 as ``Rhinosinusitis, 
pansinusitis.'' VA proposes to rename the redesignated DC 6223 as 
``Rhinosinusitis, ethmoid.'' VA proposes to rename the redesignated DC 
6224 as ``Rhinosinusitis, frontal.'' VA proposes to rename the 
redesignated DC 6225 as ``Rhinosinusitis, maxillary.'' VA proposes to 
rename the redesignated DC 6226 as ``Rhinosinusitis, sphenoid.'' VA 
also proposes to reflect current medical terminology by renaming the 
General Rating Formula for Sinusitis as General Rating Formula for 
Chronic Rhinosinusitis and Recurrent Acute Rhinosinusitis. VA will 
place this renamed rating formula immediately before the redesignated 
DC 6222.
    To modernize the rating schedule in regard to chronic sinusitis, VA 
will first introduce current medical terminology and definitions. 
Rhinosinusitis is defined as symptomatic inflammation of the paranasal 
sinuses and nasal cavity. Modern medicine understands three different 
clinical presentations of inflamed nasal passages and sinuses 
(rhinosinusitis): Acute, recurrent acute, and chronic. Richard M. 
Rosenfeld et al., ``Clinical practice guideline: Adult sinusitis,'' 
137(3 Supp.) Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery S19, Table 10 (2007).
    Acute rhinosinusitis (ARS) is defined as up to four weeks of 
purulent drainage (anterior, posterior, or both) accompanied by nasal 
obstruction, facial fullness, or both. Acute rhinosinusitis can occur 
as viral rhinosinusitis (or VRS, defined as rhinosinusitis caused by a 
virus and

[[Page 8483]]

typically lasting less than 10 days). Acute rhinosinusitis can also 
occur as acute bacterial rhinosinusitis (or ABRS, defined as a 
bacterial infection that causes symptoms of rhinosinusitis for at least 
10 days after the onset of an upper respiratory infection or causes 
recurrence of symptoms within seven days after initial improvement). If 
rhinosinusitis symptoms last at least four but less than 12 weeks, it 
is defined as subacute rhinosinusitis (SAR). Id.
    Recurrent acute rhinosinusitis (RARS) is defined as four or more 
episodes of ABRS without signs or symptoms of rhinosinusitis between 
episodes. Id.
    Finally, chronic rhinosinusitis, or CRS, is defined as 12 weeks or 
more of at least two of the following--mucopurulent drainage (anterior, 
posterior, or both); nasal obstruction (congestion); facial pain-
pressure-fullness; or decreased sense of smell--in combination with 
inflammation as documented by at least one of the following: Purulent 
mucus (not clear) in the middle meatus or ethmoid region; polyps in the 
nasal cavity or the middle meatus; or radiographic imaging showing 
inflammation of the paranasal sinuses. Id.
    VA compensates disabilities that impair earning capacity, not 
temporary conditions that generally do not impact earning capacity. See 
38 U.S.C. 1155; Davis, 276 F.3d at 1345-47; see also Moore, 555 F.3d at 
1373. In that regard, CRS and RARS are distinguishable from ARS and 
SAR. To assist the public and rating activity in better understanding 
what disabilities are compensated under this General Rating Formula, VA 
proposes to include a note identifying which conditions are eligible 
for compensation and another note specifying which conditions are 
explicitly excluded from compensation.
    The present rating criteria evaluate chronic sinusitis 
predominantly on the frequency of ``incapacitating episodes,'' which 
includes prolonged antibiotic treatment, as well as the need for ``bed 
rest'' and ``treatment by a physician.'' Current standards of medical 
care, however, no longer describe incapacitating episodes or bed rest 
as treatment. VA therefore proposes to retain those elements of the 
existing criteria--namely, frequency/duration of antibiotic treatment--
that still relate to current medical practice and eliminate reference 
to incapacitating episodes. VA also proposes to retain the 50 percent 
criteria that require unresponsiveness to surgery to reflect the 
severity of disability that accompanies that rating level.
    In light of the above, VA's proposed General Rating Formula for 
Chronic Rhinosinusitis (CRS) and Recurrent Acute Rhinosinusitis (RARS) 
will retain the same rating levels as the current General Rating 
Formula for Sinusitis (i.e., 0, 10, 30, and 50 percent). The criteria 
begin with a 50 percent evaluation granted for CRS/RARS which requires 
12 weeks or more of treatment with antibiotics and unresponsiveness to 
surgical intervention with endoscopy or other surgical procedure 
designed to treat CRS/RARS. A 30 percent evaluation will be granted for 
CRS/RARS that requires 12 weeks or more of treatment with antibiotics 
during the preceding 12-month period. A 10 percent evaluation will be 
granted for CRS/RARS which requires antibiotic treatment for at least 
four weeks but less than 12 weeks during the preceding 12-month period. 
Finally, a 0 percent evaluation will be granted when there has been 
less than four weeks treatment with antibiotics during the preceding 
12-month period. Rosenfeld, supra, at S1-31; see also Thomas A. Tami, 
``Granulomatous Diseases and Chronic Rhinosinusitis,'' 38 Otolaryngol. 
Clin. N. Am. 1267-78 (2005).
    Finally, DC 6514 currently contains a note that defines an 
``incapacitating episode'' for purposes of assigning evaluations. The 
proposed criteria above render this note no longer necessary, so VA 
proposes to delete it.
iii. Diagnostic Code 6520
    VA proposes to redesignate stenosis of the larynx, currently 
evaluated under DC 6520, as DC 6231. It also proposes to amend the 
rating criteria for this DC, which will result in evaluations based 
upon the measured degree of stenosis, rather than the current 
utilization of PFTs. While stenosis of the trachea may affect PFTs, 
many other diseases may also impact them. Advances in diagnostic 
devices, including fiber optics, have improved visualization of the 
larynx and its associated structures and allowed more accurate 
assessment of anatomy. L. Sulica, ``Hoarseness,'' 137 Archives of 
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery 616 (2011). Hence, VA proposes to 
update its evaluative criteria.
    Specifically, VA proposes to evaluate partial obstruction of the 
larynx with less than 25 percent narrowing of the airways as 30 percent 
disabling. VA proposes a 50 percent evaluation for partial obstruction 
of the larynx, with 25 percent to less than 50 percent narrowing of 
airways. Partial obstruction of the larynx, with 50 percent or more 
narrowing of airways, will warrant a 70 percent evaluation. Finally, VA 
proposes to assign a 100 percent evaluation for obstruction of the 
larynx, requiring permanent tracheostomy. VA will retain the current 
note allowing for an alternative evaluation as aphonia. VA notes that 
research indicates airway cross-sectional area reduced by 50 percent or 
more impairs breathing. See Sylvia Verbanck et al., ``Detecting upper 
airway obstruction in patients with tracheal stenosis,'' 109 J. of 
Applied Physiology 47 (July 2010). As such, obstruction less than 50 
percent reflects no more than moderate disability (i.e., warranting a 
30 or 50 percent evaluation).
iv. Diagnostic Code 6522
    The current DC 6522 is ``Allergic or vasomotor rhinitis'' and VA 
will rename it ``Rhinitis, allergic or nonallergic (vasomotor).'' VA 
proposes to redesignate this DC as 6240 under Sec.  4.87. VA also 
proposes to modify the rating criteria to reflect current medical 
understanding and practice. First, VA proposes to modify the criteria 
for a 10 percent rating to require continuous therapy (almost always 
self-administered) to control symptoms. VA also proposes a 30 percent 
rating for the presence of polyps, preserving the prior rating 
criteria. VA will add a note that directs personnel to rate under 
proposed DC 6233 (rhinosinusitis, allergic and nonallergic (vasomotor) 
related) using the General Rating Formula for Rhinosinusitis instead of 
proposed DC 6240 (Rhinitis, allergic or nonallergic (vasomotor)) if 
either chronic or recurrent acute form of rhinosinusitis is present. 
See Rosenfeld, supra at S1-31.
v. Diagnostic Code 6523
    Currently, DC 6523 (bacterial rhinitis) addresses chronic residuals 
related to bacterial infection of the sinuses. VA proposes to 
redesignate DC 6523 as 6234 under Sec.  4.87. Additionally, VA proposes 
to rename this DC, ``Rhinosinusitis, infection related,'' for clarity 
to ensure that readers understand that it includes rhinosinusitis 
caused by bacterial or fungal agents.
    VA proposes that infection-related rhinosinusitis be evaluated 
under the proposed General Rating Formula for CRS and RARS to, again, 
reflect current medical understanding.
vi. Diagnostic Code 6524
    Current DC 6524 (granulomatous rhinitis) provides for a 100 percent 
evaluation for Wegener's granulomatosis or lethal midline granuloma; VA 
assigns a 20 percent evaluation for other types of granulomatous 
infection. These evaluations are outdated for a number of reasons. 
Modern medical science has identified lethal midline granuloma (also 
referred to as lymphomatoid

[[Page 8484]]

granulomatosis or polymorphic reticulosis) as a peripheral T-cell 
lymphoma. Wegener's (now referred to as granulomatous disease with 
polyangiitis, or GPA), Churg-Strauss disease (now referred to as 
eosinophilic granulomatous disease with polyangiitis, or EGPA), and 
sarcoidosis are all autoimmune conditions that can affect the sinuses 
and nasal passages. They typically require systemic immunosuppressive 
treatment for extended periods (one to two years, or more) and may 
recur, requiring resumption of immunosuppressive treatment. As a 
result, VA proposes several revisions to incorporate current medical 
understanding of these conditions.
    First, VA proposes to redesignate this code as DC 6235 under Sec.  
4.87. Second, VA proposes to rename this code ``Rhinosinusitis, 
autoimmune, granulomatous or other causes,'' to update terminology. 
Third, VA proposes to ensure consistent application by adding a note 
that directs rating personnel to evaluate lethal midline granuloma 
under proposed DC 6238, as such condition is best characterized as a 
malignant neoplasm. Fourth, VA proposes to transfer the 100 percent 
evaluation from the current DC 6524 to the new DC 6235, as well as 
modify its criteria by linking it to the current use of systemic 
immunosuppressive therapy. Fifth, VA proposes to direct personnel to 
use the proposed General Rating Formula for CRS and RARS for any 
evaluation less than 100 percent under proposed DC 6235. This 
instruction helps ensure appropriate, uniform ratings for any chronic 
residuals that do not rise to the level of malignancy.
7. Proposed New Diagnostic Codes
    In addition to amending current DCs under Sec.  4.87 and relocating 
those from Sec.  4.97, VA proposes to add several new conditions to 
better evaluate veterans using a more complete ear, nose and throat 
schedule.
i. Diagnostic Code 6233
    The first new DC VA proposes to add to Sec.  4.87 is 
Rhinosinusitis, allergic and nonallergic (vasomotor) related (DC 6233). 
This DC enables rating personnel to capture CRS or RARS as a 
consequence of DC 6240 (Rhinitis, allergic or nonallergic (vasomotor)). 
DC 6240 will instruct rating personnel to select DC 6233 
(rhinosinusitis, allergic or nonallergic (vasomotor) related) if either 
CRS or RARS is present.
ii. Diagnostic Code 6236
    A new condition frequently present in veterans that VA proposes to 
add to Sec.  4.87 is vocal cord paralysis (DC 6236). Its primary 
symptom is hoarseness, so VA proposes to direct rating personnel to 
evaluate this condition analogous to chronic laryngitis (DC 6228) or 
aphonia (DC 6230). See Seth R. Schwartz et al., ``Clinical practice 
guideline: Hoarseness (dysphonia),'' 141(Supp. 3) Otolaryngology-Head 
and Neck Surgery S1 (2009).
iii. Diagnostic Codes 6237 and 6238
    Benign and malignant neoplasms of the nasopharynx occur with such 
sufficient frequency among veterans that VA proposes to add discrete 
codes (DCs 6237 and 6238, respectively) for these conditions. VA 
proposes to rate benign neoplasms according to impairment of function 
by utilizing the most appropriate evaluation criteria because the 
disability due to these neoplasms varies. The addition of DC 6237 does 
not represent a substantive change in the evaluation of benign 
neoplasms, but it allows for better tracking and data analysis of this 
condition by providing a specific DC.
    VA proposes to evaluate malignant neoplasms similarly to other 
malignancies in the VASRD. Specifically, VA will assign an evaluation 
of 100 percent for six months beyond the cessation of any surgery, 
radiation treatment, antineoplastic chemotherapy, or other therapeutic 
procedures. Then, VA will determine the appropriate disability rating 
by ordering a mandatory VA examination. VA will apply the provisions of 
Sec.  3.105(e) of this chapter to any change in evaluation based upon 
that or any subsequent examination. Rating personnel will evaluate 
residual impairment of function barring subsequent local recurrence or 
metastasis.
iv. Diagnostic Code 6239
    VA proposes to add a new DC for diseases of the salivary glands, 
other than neoplasms (DC 6239). These conditions generally result in 
xerostomia (dry mouth), a condition that may lead to secondary effects 
of dental disease, nutritional deficit, pain, formation of salivary 
duct stones, and/or changes in taste. See James J. Sciubba and David 
Goldenberg., ``Oral complications of radiotherapy,'' 7 Lancet Oncology 
175 (2006); S.B. Jensen et al., ``A systematic review of salivary gland 
hypofunction and xerostomia induced by cancer therapies: management 
strategies and economic impact,'' 18 Support Care Cancer 1061 (2010).
    VA proposes to assign a 0 percent evaluation for xerostomia (dry 
mouth) not accompanied by secondary conditions such as difficulty in 
mastication of food or painless swelling of the salivary glands. VA 
would assign a 10 percent evaluation for xerostomia with altered 
sensation of taste and difficulty with lubrication and mastication of 
food but without associated weight loss or increase in dental caries. 
VA would also award a 10 percent evaluation if there was chronic 
inflammation of a salivary gland with pain and swelling on eating; or 
one or more salivary calculi, or gland stricture. Finally, VA proposes 
a maximum 20 percent evaluation for xerostomia with altered sensation 
of taste and difficulty with lubrication and mastication of food that 
results in either weight loss or an increase in dental caries. Diseases 
of the salivary glands may also result in neurological residuals and 
facial disfigurement due to swelling, so VA intends to include a note 
directing rating personnel to evaluate such residuals under the 
appropriate code(s).

Executive Orders 12866 and 13563

    Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 direct agencies to assess the 
costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, when 
regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize 
net benefits (including potential economic, environmental, public 
health and safety effects, and other advantages; distributive impacts; 
and equity). Executive Order 13563 (Improving Regulation and Regulatory 
Review) emphasizes the importance of quantifying both costs and 
benefits, reducing costs, harmonizing rules, and promoting flexibility. 
The Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs has determined that 
this rule is an economically significant regulatory action under 
Executive Order 12866. The Regulatory Impact Analysis associated with 
this rulemaking can be found as a supporting document at 
www.regulations.gov.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Secretary hereby certifies that this proposed rule will not 
have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities as they are defined in the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 
U.S.C. 601-612). The certification is based on the fact that no small 
entities or businesses assign evaluations for disability claims. 
Therefore, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 605(b), the initial and final 
regulatory flexibility

[[Page 8485]]

analysis requirements of 5 U.S.C. 603 and 604 do not apply.

Unfunded Mandates

    The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 requires, at 2 U.S.C. 
1532, that agencies prepare an assessment of anticipated costs and 
benefits before issuing any rule that is likely to result in the 
expenditure by State, local, and tribal governments, in the aggregate, 
or by the private sector, of $100 million or more (adjusted annually 
for inflation) in any given year. This proposed rule would have no such 
effect on State, local, and tribal governments, or on the private 
sector.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    Although this proposed rule contains provisions constituting a 
collection of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 
U.S.C. 3501-3521), no new or proposed revised collections of 
information are associated with this proposed rule. Specifically, the 
information collection requirements associated with this proposed rule 
are related to the filing of disability benefits claims (VA Form 21-
526EZ) as well as Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) (Groups 3 
and 4) which enable claimants to gather the necessary information from 
his or her treating physician as to the current symptoms and severity 
of a disability. The information collection requirements are approved 
by OMB and have been assigned OMB control numbers 2900-0747, 2900-0778, 
and 2900-0781.

Assistance Listing

    The Assistance Listing numbers and titles for this rule are 64.104, 
Pension for Non-Service-Connected Disability for Veterans; 64.109, 
Veterans Compensation for Service-Connected Disability; and 64.110, 
Veterans Dependency and Indemnity Compensation for Service-Connected 
Death.

List of Subjects

38 CFR Part 3

    Claims, Disability benefits, Pensions, Veterans.

38 CFR Part 4

    Disability benefits, Pensions, Veterans.

Signing Authority

    Denis McDonough, Secretary of Veterans Affairs, approved this 
document on July 6, 2021, and authorized the undersigned to sign and 
submit the document to the Office of the Federal Register for 
publication electronically as an official document of the Department of 
Veterans Affairs.

Michael P. Shores,
Director, Office of Regulation Policy & Management, Office of the 
Secretary, Department of Veterans.

    For the reasons set forth in the preamble, VA proposes to amend 38 
CFR parts 3 and 4 as set forth below:

PART 3--ADJUDICATION

Subpart A--Pension, Compensation, and Dependency and Indemnity 
Compensation

0
1. The authority citation for part 3, subpart A, continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority:  38 U.S.C. 501(a), unless otherwise noted.

0
2. Amend Sec.  3.350 by revising paragraphs (e)(1)(iii), (e)(1)(iv), 
(f)(2)(v), and (f)(2)(vi) to read as follows:


Sec.  3.350   Special monthly compensation ratings.

* * * * *
    (e) * * *
    (1) * * *
    (iii) Bilateral deafness rated at 60 percent or more disabling (and 
the hearing loss in either one or both ears is service connected) in 
combination with service-connected blindness with bilateral visual 
acuity 20/200 or less.
    (iv) Service-connected total deafness in one ear or bilateral 
deafness rated at 40 percent or more disabling (and the hearing loss in 
either one of both ears is service-connected) in combination with 
service-connected blindness of both eyes having only light perception 
or less.
* * * * *
    (f) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (v) Blindness in both eyes having only light perception or less, or 
rated under paragraph (f)(2)(iii) of this section, when accompanied by 
bilateral deafness (and the hearing loss in either one or both ears is 
service-connected) rated at 10 or 20 percent disabling, will afford 
entitlement to the next higher intermediate rate, or if the veteran is 
already entitled to an intermediate rate, to the next higher statutory 
rate under 38 U.S.C. 1114, but in no event higher than the rate for 
(o).

(Authority: Sec. 112, Pub. L. 98-223)


    (vi) Blindness in both eyes rated under 38 U.S.C. 1114 (l), (m) or 
(n), or rated under paragraphs (f)(2)(i), (ii) or (iii) of this 
section, when accompanied by bilateral deafness rated at no less than 
30 percent, and the hearing loss in one or both ears is service-
connected, will afford entitlement to the next higher statutory rate 
under 38 U.S.C. 1114, or if the veteran is already entitled to an 
intermediate rate, to the next higher intermediate rate, but in no 
event higher than the rate for (o).

(Authority: 38 U.S.C. 1114(p))


0
3. Amend Sec.  3.383 by revising paragraph (a)(3) and the Cross 
References to read as follows:


Sec.  3.383   Special considerations for paired organs and extremities.

    (a) * * *
    (3) Hearing loss in one ear compensable to a degree of 10 percent 
or more as a result of service-connected disability and hearing loss as 
a result of nonservice-connected disability that meets the provisions 
of Sec.  3.385 in the other ear.
* * * * *
    Cross References:


Sec.  3.385  Disability due to hearing loss; Sec.  4.85 Evaluation of 
hearing loss.

0
4. Amend Sec.  3.815 by revising paragraph (d)(6)(viii) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  3.815   Monetary allowance under 38 U.S.C. chapter 18 for an 
individual with disability from covered birth defects whose biological 
mother is or was a Vietnam veteran; identification of covered birth 
defects.

* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (6) * * *
    (viii) Post-infancy deafness/hearing loss (onset after the age of 
one year);
0
5. Revise Sec.  3.385 to read as follows:


Sec.  3.385   Disability due to hearing loss.

    For the purposes of administering its laws, VA will consider 
hearing loss to be a disability when the pure-tone auditory air 
conduction threshold in any of the frequencies of 500, 1000, 2000, 
3000, or 4000 Hertz is 40 decibels or greater; or when the pure-tone 
auditory air conduction thresholds for at least three of the 
frequencies of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 3,000, or 4,000 Hertz are 26 decibels 
or greater; or when word recognition scores using the Maryland CNC Test 
are less than 94 percent.

PART 4--SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES

Subpart B--Disability Ratings

0
6. The authority citation for part 4 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  38 U.S.C. 1155, unless otherwise noted.

0
7. Revise the undesignated center heading before Sec.  4.85 to read as 
follows:

[[Page 8486]]

Ear, Nose, Throat, and Auditory Disabilities

0
8. Amend Sec.  4.85 by:
0
a. Revising the section heading;
0
b. Revising paragraphs (a) through (g);
0
c. Revising tables VI, VIA, and VII;
0
d. Adding entry for diagnostic code 6100; and,
0
e. Adding authority citation.
    The revisions and additions read as follows:


Sec.  4.85   Evaluation of hearing loss.

    (a) An examination for hearing loss for VA purposes must be 
conducted by a state-licensed audiologist and must include a controlled 
word recognition test (Maryland CNC) and a pure-tone audiometry test. 
Examinations will be conducted without the use of hearing aids. Hearing 
levels are measured in decibels and expressed as dB HL.
    (b) Table VI, ``Numeric Designation of Hearing Loss Based on Pure-
Tone Air Conduction Threshold Average and Word Recognition,'' is used 
to determine a Roman numeral designation (I through XI) for hearing 
loss based on a combination of the percent of word recognition 
(horizontal rows) and the pure-tone air conduction threshold average 
(vertical columns). The Roman numeral designation is located at the 
point where the percentage of word recognition and pure-tone air 
conduction threshold average intersect.
    (c) Table VIA, ``Special Numeric Designation of Hearing Loss Based 
Only on Pure-Tone Air Conduction Threshold Average,'' is used to 
determine a Roman numeral designation (I through XI) for hearing loss 
based only on the pure-tone air conduction threshold average. Table VIA 
will be used when the examiner certifies that use of the word 
recognition test is not appropriate because of language difficulties 
(e.g., English non-fluency), cognitive difficulties, inconsistent word 
recognition scores, etc., or when indicated under the provisions of 
Sec.  4.86.
    (d) ``Pure-tone air conduction threshold average,'' as used in 
Tables VI and VIA, is the sum of the pure-tone air conduction 
thresholds at 1,000, 2,000, 3,000, and 4,000 Hertz, divided by four. 
This average is used in all cases (including those in Sec.  4.86) to 
determine the Roman numeral designation for hearing loss from Table VI 
or VIA.
    (e) Table VII, ``Percentage Evaluations for Hearing Loss,'' is used 
to determine the percentage evaluation by combining the Roman numeral 
designations for hearing loss of each ear. The horizontal rows 
represent the ear having the better hearing and the vertical columns 
the ear having the poorer hearing. The percentage evaluation is located 
at the point where the row and column intersect.
    (f) If hearing loss is service-connected in only one ear, in order 
to determine the percentage evaluation from Table VII, the non-service-
connected ear will be assigned a Roman Numeral designation for hearing 
loss of I, subject to the provisions of Sec.  3.383 of this chapter.
    (g) When evaluating any claim for hearing loss, refer to Sec.  
3.350 of this chapter to determine whether the veteran may be entitled 
to special monthly compensation due either to deafness, or to deafness 
in combination with other specified disabilities.
* * * * *
BILLING CODE 8320-01-P
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP15FE22.025


[[Page 8487]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP15FE22.026

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP15FE22.027

BILLING CODE 8320-01-C

[[Page 8488]]



------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                Rating
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6100 Hearing Loss:
    If hearing loss is evaluated at 0 percent under Table             10
     VII and tinnitus is diagnosed as associated with
     underlying hearing loss...............................
    Otherwise, evaluate using the Tables above.
    Note (1): The 10 percent evaluation is only applicable
     to tinnitus diagnosed as associated with non-
     compensable service-connected hearing loss. Tinnitus
     diagnosed as associated with another service-connected
     disability (i.e., Meniere's disease, residuals of
     traumatic brain injury (TBI), cerebral
     arteriosclerosis, vascular neurocognitive disorder)
     must be evaluated as a part of that disability without
     a separate evaluation for tinnitus under diagnostic
     code 6100.
    Note (2): Tinnitus will only be compensated as part of
     an underlying service-connected condition.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


(Authority: 38 U.S.C. 1155)


0
9. Revise Sec.  4.86 to read as follows:


Sec.  4.86   Exceptional patterns of hearing loss.

    (a) When the pure-tone air conduction threshold at each of the four 
specified frequencies (1000, 2000, 3000, and 4000 Hertz) is 55 dB HL or 
more, the rating activity will determine the Roman numeral designation 
for hearing loss from either Table VI or Table VIA, whichever results 
in the higher numeral. Each ear will be evaluated separately.
    (b) When the pure-tone air conduction threshold is 30 dB HL or less 
at 1000 Hertz, and 70 dB HL or more at 2000 Hertz, the rating activity 
will determine the Roman numeral designation for hearing loss from 
either Table VI or Table VIA, whichever results in the higher numeral. 
That numeral will then be elevated to the next higher Roman numeral. 
Each ear will be evaluated separately.

(Authority: 38 U.S.C. 1155)


0
10. Amend Sec.  4.87 by:
0
a. Revising the section heading;
0
b. Removing the heading ``Diseases of the Ear'';
0
c. Revising entries for diagnostic codes 6200 through 6205;
0
d. Adding entries for diagnostic codes 6220 through 6240 in numerical 
order; and
0
e. Removing entry for diagnostic code 6260.
    The revisions and additions read as follows:


Sec.  4.87   Schedule of ratings--ear, nose, and throat.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                Rating
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              * * * * * * *
6200 Chronic suppurative otitis media, mastoiditis, or
 cholesteatoma (or any combination):
    During suppuration, or with aural polyps                          10
    Note: Evaluate hearing loss and complications such as
     labyrinthitis, facial nerve paralysis, or bone loss of
     skull, separately.
6201 Chronic nonsuppurative otitis media with effusion
 (serious otitis media):
    Rate based on hearing loss.
6202 Otosclerosis, stapedectomy, stapedotomy, residuals of:
    Rate based on hearing loss.
6204 Peripheral vestibular disorders:
    Vestibular disorder in one or both ears with symptoms            100
     during the last six months of sufficient frequency and
     intensity to result in an inability to engage in work
     and/or self-care and an inability to perform routine
     activities of daily living without assistance of
     others, even with modification of activity or
     accommodation.........................................
    Vestibular disorder with symptoms during the last six             30
     months that occur with sufficient frequency to require
     routine limitation in activities such as those related
     to work and/or self-care but that enable independent
     activity with effort and some modification and/or
     accommodation.........................................
    Vestibular disorder with symptoms during the last six             10
     months that require brief and temporary modification
     of activity but do not prevent continuation of normal
     functions such as work and/or self-care...............
    Note (1): Self-care activities for the purposes of this
     DC consist of bathing, dressing, eating, managing
     hygiene, handling basic transfers, and/or mobility; a
     qualified health care provider must determine that the
     individual has difficulties with these activities.
    Note (2): VA requires objective findings supporting the
     diagnosis of peripheral vestibular disorder before
     assigning a compensable evaluation under this code. VA
     will separately evaluate and combine hearing loss or
     suppuration...........................................
6205 Meniere's syndrome (endolymphatic hydrops):
    In all cases, with hearing loss, with or without
     tinnitus; and
        Either:
        Vertigo occurring five or more times a month; or
        With persistent disequilibrium and gait instability          100
    Vertigo occurring one to four times a month............           60
    Vertigo less than once a month.........................           30
    Note (1): The Meniere's syndrome diagnosis must be made
     by a otolaryngologist or neurologist.
    Note (2): For evaluation purposes, calculate the
     average vertigo frequency using a six-month period.
    Note (3): Evaluate Meniere's syndrome either under
     these criteria or by separately evaluating vertigo (as
     a peripheral vestibular disorder) and hearing loss,
     whichever method results in a higher overall
     evaluation. However, do not combine an evaluation for
     hearing loss or vertigo with an evaluation under this
     diagnostic code.
 
                              * * * * * * *
6220 Septum, nasal, deviation of:
    Traumatic only,
    With 50 percent obstruction of the nasal passage on               10
     both sides or complete obstruction on one side........
6221 Nose, loss of part of, or scars:
    Loss of half or more, unable to use prosthesis (as                30
     documented by a qualified medical provider)...........
    Loss of less than half, unable to use prosthesis (as              20
     documented by a qualified medical provider)...........
    Any loss of the nose for which a prosthesis is required           10
     or recommended by a qualified medical provider and is
     capable of use........................................

[[Page 8489]]

 
    Loss or disfigurement for which a prosthesis is not                0
     required or recommended by a qualified medical
     provider..............................................
    Note: Or evaluate as DC 7800 (scars, disfiguring, head,
     face, or neck).
General Rating Formula for Chronic Rhinosinusitis (CRS) and
 Recurrent Acute Rhinosinusitis (RARS): DCs 6222-6226; 6233-
 6235
    12 or more weeks of treatment with antibiotics for CRS/           50
     RARS during the preceding 12-month period AND
     unresponsive to endoscopic or other surgery used to
     treat CRS/RARS........................................
    12 or more weeks of treatment with antibiotics for CRS/           30
     RARS during the preceding 12-month period.............
    At least four weeks, but less than 12 weeks of                    10
     treatment with antibiotics for CRS/RARS during the
     preceding 12-month period.............................
    Less than four weeks of treatment with antibiotics for             0
     CRS/RARS during the preceding 12-month period.........
    Note (1): VA will only compensate chronic
     rhinosinusitis (CRS) and recurrent acute
     rhinosinusitis (RARS). CRS is defined as 12 weeks or
     more of at least two of the following--(a)
     mucopurulent drainage (anterior, posterior, or both);
     (b) nasal obstruction (congestion); (c) facial pain-
     pressure-fullness; or (d) decreased sense of smell--in
     combination with inflammation as documented by either
     (a) purulent mucus (not clear) in the middle meatus or
     ethmoid region; (b) polyps in the nasal cavity or the
     middle meatus; or (c) radiographic imaging showing
     inflammation of the paranasal sinuses. RARS is defined
     as four or more episodes of acute bacterial
     rhinosinusitis (ABRS) without signs or symptoms of
     rhinosinusitis (inflammation of the paranasal sinuses
     and nasal cavity) between episodes.
    Note (2): VA will not compensate the following
     conditions: (a) Acute rhinosinusitis (ARS), which is
     defined as up to four weeks of purulent drainage
     (anterior, posterior, or both) accompanied by nasal
     obstruction, facial fullness, or both; (b) Viral
     rhinosinusitis (VRS), which is defined as
     rhinosinusitis caused by a virus and typically lasting
     less than 10 days); (c) ABRS, which is defined as a
     bacterial infection which causes symptoms of
     rhinosinusitis for at least 10 days after the onset of
     an upper respiratory infection, or causes recurrence
     of symptoms within seven days after initial
     improvement); and (d): Subacute rhinosinusitis (SAR),
     which is defined as rhinosinusitis symptoms lasting at
     least four but less than 12 weeks.
6222 Rhinosinusitis, pansinusitis.
6223 Rhinosinusitis, ethmoid.
6224 Rhinosinusitis, frontal.
6225 Rhinosinusitis, maxillary.
6226 Rhinosinusitis, sphenoid.
6227 Laryngitis, tuberculous, active or inactive. Rate
 under Sec.  Sec.   4.88c or 4.89, whichever is
 appropriate.
6228 Laryngitis, chronic:
    Hoarseness, with thickening or nodules of cords,                  30
     polyps, submucous infiltration, or pre-malignant
     changes on biopsy.....................................
    Hoarseness, with inflammation of cords or mucous                  10
     membranes.............................................
6229 Laryngectomy, total...................................       \1\100
    Rate the residuals of partial laryngectomy as
     laryngitis (DC 6228), aphonia (DC 6230), or stenosis
     of larynx (DC 6231).
6230 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 6228).
6231 Larynx, stenosis of, including residuals of laryngeal
 trauma (unilateral or bilateral):
    Total obstruction of larynx, requiring permanent                 100
     tracheostomy..........................................
    Partial obstruction of larynx with 50 percent or more             70
     narrowing of airways..................................
    Partial obstruction of larynx with 25 percent to less             50
     than 50 percent narrowing of airways..................
    Partial obstruction of larynx with less than 25 percent           30
     narrowing of airways..................................
    Note: Or, evaluate as aphonia (DC 6230).
6232 Pharynx, injuries to:
    Stricture or obstruction of pharynx or nasopharynx;               50
     absence of soft palate secondary to trauma, chemical
     burn, or granulomatous disease; or paralysis of soft
     palate with swallowing difficulty (nasal
     regurgitation) and speech impairment..................
6233 Rhinosinusitis, allergic or nonallergic (vasomotor)
 related.
6234 Rhinosinusitis, infection related.
6235 Rhinosinusitis, autoimmune, granulomatous or other
 causes:
    While receiving systemic immunosuppressive treatment,            100
     or for a period of six months after cessation of
     treatment.............................................
    Otherwise evaluate using the General Rating Formula for
     CRS and RARS.
    Note: Evaluate lethal midline granuloma (also referred
     to as lymphomatoid granulomatosis or polymorphic
     reticulosis) under neoplasm, malignant (DC 6238).
6236 Vocal cord paralysis:
    Evaluate under laryngitis, chronic (DC 6228) or
     aphonia, complete organic (DC 6230).
6237 Neoplasm, nasopharyngeal, and/or sinus, benign:                 100
    Rate on impairment of function.
6238 Neoplasm, nasopharyngeal, and/or sinus, malignant.....          100
    Note: A rating of 100 percent shall continue beyond the
     cessation of any surgery, radiation treatment,
     antineoplastic chemotherapy, or other prescribed
     therapeutic procedures. Six months after
     discontinuance of such treatment, the appropriate
     disability rating shall be determined by mandatory VA
     examination. Any change in evaluation based upon that
     or any subsequent examination shall be subject to the
     provisions of Sec.   3.105(e) of this chapter. If
     there has been no local recurrence or metastasis,
     evaluate on residual impairment of function.
6239 Disease of the salivary glands and/or associated
 ducts, other than neoplasm:
    Xerostomia (dry mouth) with altered sensation of taste            20
     and difficulty with lubrication and mastication of
     food resulting in either weight loss (as defined in
     Sec.   4.112 of this chapter) or an increase in dental
     caries................................................
    Xerostomia (dry mouth) with altered sensation of taste            10
     and difficulty with lubrication and mastication of
     food without weight loss or an increase in dental
     caries; chronic inflammation of salivary gland with
     pain and swelling on eating; or one or more salivary
     calculi or salivary gland stricture...................
    Xerostomia (dry mouth) without difficulty in                       0
     mastication of food or painless swelling of salivary
     gland.................................................
    Note: Evaluate facial nerve (cranial nerve VII)
     impairment under diagnostic code 8207 (paralysis of
     seventh (facial) cranial nerve), and any disfigurement
     due to facial swelling under diagnostic code 7800
     (disfigurement or scars of the head, face, or neck).
6240 Rhinitis, allergic or nonallergic (vasomotor):

[[Page 8490]]

 
    With documented evidence of polyps.....................           30
    Requires continuous therapy (e.g., inhaled                        10
     corticosteroids, oral or inhaled antihistamines)......
    Note: If complicated by either chronic or recurrent
     acute rhinosinusitis, evaluate instead under
     rhinosinusitis, allergic or nonallergic (vasomotor)
     related (DC 6233).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Review for entitlement to special monthly compensation under Sec.
  3.350 of this chapter.


(Authority: 38 U.S.C. 1155)


0
11. Amend Sec.  4.96 by:
0
a. Revising paragraph (a);
0
b. Removing paragraph (c);
0
c. Redesignating paragraph (d) as paragraph (c);
0
d. Revising newly redesignated paragraph (c); and
0
e. Adding new paragraph (d).
    The revisions and additions read as follows:


Sec.  4.96   Special provisions regarding evaluation of respiratory 
conditions.

    (a) Rating coexisting respiratory conditions. Unless otherwise 
directed in Sec.  4.97, do not combine ratings under that section. 
Assign a single rating under the diagnostic code that reflects the 
predominant disability, elevating it to the next higher evaluation when 
warranted by the severity of the overall disability picture. When 
permitted, combine coexisting conditions in accordance with Sec.  4.25.
* * * * *
    (c) Special provisions regarding Diagnostic Codes 6600 through 
6604, 6731, 6820, 6825 through 6833, 6840 through 6846, and 6848. (1) 
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) are required to evaluate these 
conditions except when one of the following circumstances exists:
    (i) When the results of a maximum exercise capacity test are of 
record and are 20 milliliters per kilogram per minute (ml/kg/min) or 
less. If a maximum exercise capacity test is not of record, evaluate 
based on alternative criteria.
    (ii) When there have been one or more episodes of acute respiratory 
failure.
    (iii) When outpatient oxygen therapy is required.
    (2) When the PFTs are not consistent with clinical findings, 
evaluate based on the PFTs unless the examiner states why they are not 
a valid indication of respiratory functional impairment in a particular 
case.
    (3) When there is a disparity between the results of different PFTs 
(FEV-1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in one second), FVC (Forced Vital 
Capacity), etc.), so that the level of evaluation would differ 
depending on which test result is used, use the test result that the 
examiner states most accurately reflects the level of disability.
    (d) Respiratory conditions and comorbid cardiovascular conditions. 
Absent instructions otherwise in individual diagnostic codes, if there 
are comorbid respiratory and cardiovascular conditions that can be 
evaluated by METs, only the disability from one body system may be 
evaluated using METs, while the disability involving the other body 
system must be evaluated by criteria other than METs.
0
12. In Sec.  4.97 amend the table by:
0
a. Removing the heading ``DISEASES OF THE NOSE AND THROAT'';
0
b. Removing entries for diagnostic codes 6502 through 6524;
0
c. Adding introductory text;
0
d. Adding entry for ``General Rating Formula for Respiratory 
Conditions'';
0
e. Removing the heading ``DISEASE OF THE TRACHEA AND BRONCHI'' and 
adding in its place ``INTRINSIC LUNG DISEASES'';
0
f. Adding the subheading ``Airway Disorders (Trachea, Bronchi)'' under 
``INTRINSIC LUNG DISEASES'';
0
g. Revising entries for diagnostic codes 6600 through 6604;
0
h. Removing the heading ``DISEASES OF THE LUNGS AND PLEURA--
TUBERCULOSIS'' and adding in its place ``Tuberculous Lung Diseases'';
0
i. Revising entries for diagnostic codes 6704, 6724, 6730, and 6731;
0
j. Removing the heading ``NONTUBERCULOUS DISEASES'' and adding in its 
place ``Vascular Lung Diseases'';
0
k. Revising entry for diagnostic code 6817;
0
l. Adding entry for diagnostic code 6849 under diagnostic code 6817;
0
m. Adding the subheading ``Lung Neoplasms'' above diagnostic code 6819;
0
n. Revising entries for diagnostic codes 6819 and 6820;
0
o. Removing the subheading ``Bacterial Infections of the Lung'' and 
adding in its place ``Bacterial Lung Diseases'';
0
p. Adding entry for ``General Rating Formula for Bacterial Lung 
Diseases'' above diagnostic code 6822;
0
q. Republishing entry for diagnostic code 6822;
0
r. Removing the subheading ``Interstitial Lung Disease'' and adding in 
its place ``Parenchymal Lung Disease (Including Interstitium and 
Alveolar Spaces)'';
0
s. Adding note above diagnostic code 6825;
0
t. Revising entry for diagnostic code 6825;
0
u. Republishing entry for diagnostic code 6833;
0
v. Adding entry for diagnostic code 6846 under diagnostic code 6833;
0
w. Removing entry for ``General Rating Formula for Interstitial Lung 
Disease (diagnostic codes 6825 through 6833)'';
0
x. Removing the subheading ``Mycotic Lung Disease'' and adding in its 
place ``Mycotic Lung Diseases'';
0
y. Adding entry for ``General Rating Formula for Mycotic Lung Disease'' 
above diagnostic code 6834;
0
z. Republishing entry for diagnostic code 6834;
0
aa. Removing entry for ``General Rating Formula for Mycotic Lung 
Disease (diagnostic codes 6834 through 6839)'';
0
bb. Removing the subheading ``Restrictive Lung Disease'' and adding in 
its place ``OTHER RESPIRATORY CONDITIONS'';
0
cc. Revising entries for diagnostic codes 6841 and 6842;
0
dd. Removing entry for ``General Rating Formula for Lung Diseases 
(diagnostic codes 6840 through 6845)'';
0
ee. Removing entry for diagnostic code 6846 under diagnostic code 6845;
0
ff. Revising entry for diagnostic code 6847; and
0
gg. Adding entry for diagnostic code 6848.
    The revisions and additions read as follows:


Sec.  4.97   Schedule of Ratings--Respiratory System.

[[Page 8491]]



------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                Rating
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unless otherwise directed, evaluate diseases of the
 Respiratory System under the General Rating Formula for
 Respiratory Conditions.
General Rating Formula for Respiratory Conditions:
    At least one of the following..........................          100
        Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) less than 50 percent of
         predicted value; or
        Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV-1) less
         than 45 percent of predicted value; or
        Diffusion Capacity of the Lung for Carbon Monoxide
         by the Single Breath Method (DLCO(SB)) less than
         40 percent predicted; or
        The ratio of FEV-1 to FVC (FEV-1/FVC) less than 40
         percent; or
        Maximum Oxygen Consumption measured in milliliters
         per kilogram per minute (mL/Kg/min) (VO2 Max) less
         than 10.5; or
        Workload of 3 Metabolic Equivalents (METs) or less.
    At least one of the following..........................           60
        FVC of 50 to 64 percent predicted; or
        FEV-1 of 45 to 55 percent predicted; or
        DLCO(SB) of 40 to 55 percent predicted; or
        FEV-1/FVC of 40 to 55 percent; or
        VO2 Max of 10.5 to 17.5; or
        Workload of 3.1-5.0 METs.
    At least one of the following..........................           30
        FVC of 65 to 74 percent predicted; or
        FEV-1 of 56 to 70 percent predicted; or
        DLCO(SB) of 56 to 65 percent predicted; or
        FEV-1/FVC of 56 to 70 percent; or
        VO2 Max of 17.6 to 24.5; or
        Workload of 5.1-7.0 METs.
    At least one of the following..........................           10
        FVC of 75 to 80 percent predicted; or
        FEV-1 of 71 to 80 percent predicted; or
        DLCO(SB) of 66 to 80 percent predicted; or
        FEV-1/FVC of 71 to 80 percent.
    Note (1): Base the rating on the criteria that reflects
     the greatest impairment and, therefore, the greatest
     disability percentage, unless otherwise directed by
     the examiner (see Sec.   4.96(c)(3)).
    Note (2): Do not combine a rating assigned from this
     formula with other ratings under Sec.   4.97, except
     for sleep apnea syndromes (DC 6847).
    Note (3): Per Sec.   4.96(d), when METs are used to
     evaluate a respiratory disability under Sec.   4.97,
     do not use METs to evaluate a comorbid cardiovascular
     disability under Sec.   4.104, and vice versa.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         INTRINSIC LUNG DISEASES
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Airway Disorders (Trachea, Bronchi)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6600 Bronchitis, chronic.
6601 Bronchiectasis.
6602 Asthma, bronchial:
    At least one of the following..........................          100
        FEV-1 less than 45 percent predicted; or
        FEV-1/FVC less than 40 percent; or
        More than one attack per week with episodes of
         respiratory failure; or
        Requires daily use of systemic (oral or parenteral)
         high-dose corticosteroids or immuno-suppressive
         medications.
    At least one of the following..........................           60
        FEV-1 of 45 to 55 percent predicted; or
        FEV-1/FVC of 40 to 55 percent; or
        At least monthly visits to a physician for required
         care of exacerbations; or
        Intermittent (at least three per year) courses of
         systemic (oral or parenteral) corticosteroids.
    At least one of the following..........................           30
        FEV-1 of 56 to 70 percent predicted; or
        FEV-1/FVC of 56 to 70 percent; or
        Daily inhalational or oral bronchodilator therapy
         or inhalational anti-inflammatory medication.
    At least one of the following..........................           10
        FEV-1 of 71 to 80 percent predicted; or
        FEV-1/FVC of 71 to 80 percent; or
        less than daily inhalational or oral bronchodilator
         therapy.
    Note (1): In the absence of clinical findings of asthma
     at the time of examination, a verified history of
     asthmatic attacks must be of record.
    Note (2): Do not combine a rating assigned under this
     diagnostic code with other ratings under Sec.   4.97,
     except for sleep apnea syndromes (DC 6847).
6603 Emphysema, pulmonary.
6604 Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        Tuberculous Lung Diseases
------------------------------------------------------------------------
     Ratings for Pulmonary Tuberculosis Entitled on August 19, 1968
 

[[Page 8492]]

 
                              * * * * * * *
6704 Tuberculosis, pulmonary, chronic, active, advancement           100
 unspecified...............................................
    General Rating Formula for Inactive Pulmonary
     Tuberculosis:
        For two years after date of inactivity, following            100
         active tuberculosis, which was clinically
         identified during service or subsequently.........
        Thereafter for four years, or in any event, to six            50
         years after date of inactivity....................
        Thereafter, for 5 years, or to 11 years after date            30
         of inactivity.....................................
        Following far advanced lesions diagnosed at any               30
         time while the disease process was active, minimum
        Following moderately advanced lesions, provided               20
         there is continued disability, emphysema, dyspnea
         on exertion, impairment of health, etc............
        Otherwise..........................................            0
    Note (1): The 100 percent rating under codes 6701
     through 6724 is not subject to a requirement of
     precedent hospital treatment. It will be reduced to 50
     percent for failure to submit to examination or to
     follow prescribed treatment upon report to that effect
     from the medical authorities. When a veteran is placed
     on the 100 percent rating for inactive tuberculosis,
     the medical authorities will be appropriately notified
     of the fact, and of the necessity to notify the
     Veterans Service Center in the event of failure to
     submit to examination or to follow treatment.
    Note (2): The graduated 50 percent and 30 percent
     ratings and the permanent 30 percent and 20 percent
     ratings for inactive pulmonary tuberculosis are not to
     be combined with ratings for other respiratory
     disabilities. Following thoracoplasty, the rating will
     be for removal of ribs combined with the rating for
     collapsed lung. Resection of the ribs incident to
     thoracoplasty will be evaluated as removal.
 
                              * * * * * * *
6724 Tuberculosis, pulmonary, chronic, inactive,
 advancement unspecified.
 
                              * * * * * * *
6730 Tuberculosis, pulmonary, chronic, active..............          100
    Note: Active pulmonary tuberculosis will be considered
     permanently and totally disabling for non-service-
     connected pension purposes in the following
     circumstances:
        (a) Associated with active tuberculosis involving
         other than the respiratory system.
        (b) With severe associated symptoms or with
         extensive cavity formation.
        (c) Reactivated cases, generally.
        (d) With advancement of lesions on successive
         examinations or while under treatment.
        (e) Without retrogression of lesions or other
         evidence of material improvement at the end of 6
         months hospitalization or without change of
         diagnosis from ``active'' at the end of 12 months
         hospitalization. Material improvement means
         lessening or absence of clinical symptoms, and X-
         ray findings of a stationary or retrogressive
         lesion.
6731 Tuberculosis, primary, chronic, inactive:
    Depending on the specific findings, evaluate
     respiratory residuals using General Rating Formula for
     Respiratory Conditions.
    Note (1): Evaluate thoracoplasty as removal of ribs
     under DC 5297.
    Note (2): Request a mandatory examination immediately
     following notification that active tuberculosis
     evaluated under DC 6730 has become inactive. Implement
     any change in evaluation under the provisions of Sec.
      3.105(e).
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         Vascular Lung Diseases
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6817 Pulmonary thromboembolic disease:
    Chronic pulmonary thromboembolism with evidence of               100
     either pulmonary hypertension or right ventricular
     hypertrophy...........................................
    At least one of the following..........................           60
        Chronic pulmonary thromboembolism requiring
         anticoagulant therapy; or
        Following inferior vena cava surgery without
         evidence of pulmonary hypertension or right
         ventricular dysfunction.
    Symptomatic, following resolution of acute pulmonary              30
     embolism..............................................
    Asymptomatic, following resolution of pulmonary                    0
     thromboembolism.......................................
    Note (1): Evaluate other residuals following pulmonary
     embolism under the most appropriate diagnostic code,
     such as chronic bronchitis (DC 6600) or chronic
     pleural effusion or fibrosis (DC 6844), but do not
     combine that evaluation with any of the above
     evaluations.
    Note (2): Do not assign separate evaluations for
     pulmonary thromboembolic disease with right
     ventricular hypertrophy and a comorbid cardiovascular
     condition listed under Sec.   4.104, diagnostic codes
     (DCs) 7000-7020. Assign a single rating under this
     diagnostic code or under DCs 7000-7020, whichever
     reflects the predominant disability.
    Note (3): Do not combine a rating assigned under this
     diagnostic code with other ratings under Sec.   4.97,
     except for sleep apnea syndromes (DC 6847).
6849 Pulmonary hypertension:
    Echocardiogram with severe right ventricular (RV)
     enlargement (greater than 4 cm), and at least one of
     the following:
        Maximum Oxygen Consumption measured in milliliters
         per kilogram per minute (mL/Kg/min) (VO2 Max) less
         than 15; or
        Workload of 3 Metabolic Equivalents (METs) or less.          100
    Echocardiogram with severe RV enlargement (greater than
     4 cm), and at least one of the following:
        Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) greater than 500;
        VO2 Max of 15 to 20; or
        Workload of 3.1 to 5.0 METs........................           60
    Echocardiogram with moderate RV enlargement (3 to 4
     cm), and at least one of the following:
        BNP of 100 to 500; or
        Workload of 5.1 to 7.0 METs........................           30
    One of the following:
        BNP less than 100; or
        VO2 Max greater than 20............................            0

[[Page 8493]]

 
    Note (1): Acute pulmonary hypertension is not a
     disability for rating purposes.
    Note (2): Do not assign separate evaluations for
     pulmonary hypertension and a comorbid cardiovascular
     condition listed under Sec.   4.104, diagnostic codes
     (DCs) 7000-7020. Assign a single rating under this
     diagnostic code or under DCs 7000-7020, whichever
     reflects the predominant disability.
    Note (3): Do not combine a rating assigned under this
     diagnostic code with other ratings under Sec.   4.97,
     except for sleep apnea syndromes (DC 6847).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                             Lung Neoplasms
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6819 Neoplasms, malignant, any specified part of                     100
 respiratory system exclusive of skin growths..............
    Note: A rating of 100 percent shall continue beyond the
     cessation of any surgical, X-ray, antineoplastic
     chemotherapy, or other prescribed therapeutic
     procedure. Six months after discontinuance of such
     treatment, the appropriate disability rating shall be
     determined by mandatory VA examination. Any change in
     evaluation based upon that or any subsequent
     examination shall be subject to the provisions of Sec.
       3.105(e) of this chapter. If there has been no local
     recurrence or metastasis, evaluate on residuals by
     using the General Rating Formula for Respiratory
     Conditions.
6820 Neoplasms, benign, any specified part of respiratory
 system.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         Bacterial Lung Diseases
------------------------------------------------------------------------
General Rating Formula for Bacterial Lung Diseases:
    Active infection with systemic symptoms such as fever,           100
     night sweats, weight loss, or hemoptysis..............
    Depending on the specific findings, evaluate the most
     severe residual analogously.
    Note: Do not combine a rating assigned under this
     formula with other ratings under Sec.   4.97, except
     for sleep apnea syndromes (DC 6847).
6822 Actinomycosis.
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Parenchymal Lung Disease (Including Interstitium and Alveolar Spaces)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note (1): Evaluate using the General Rating Formula for
 Respiratory Conditions.
Note (2): For DCs 6825 through 6833 and DC 6846, add 10
 percent to any rating if a physician prescribes either of
 the following: Oral prednisone greater than 20mg daily or
 daily second-line (i.e., non-steroidal) immunosuppressive
 medication.
6825 Diffuse interstitial fibrosis (interstitial
 pneumonitis, fibrosing alveolitis, or idiopathic
 fibrosis).
 
                              * * * * * * *
6833 Asbestosis.
6846 Sarcoidosis.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Mycotic Lung Diseases
------------------------------------------------------------------------
General Rating Formula for Mycotic Lung Diseases:
    Chronic pulmonary mycosis with persistent fever, weight          100
     loss, night sweats, or massive hemoptysis.............
    Chronic pulmonary mycosis requiring suppressive therapy           50
     with no more than minimal symptoms such as occasional
     minor hemoptysis or productive cough..................
    Chronic pulmonary mycosis with minimal symptoms such as           30
     occasional minor hemoptysis or productive cough.......
    Healed and inactive mycotic lesions, asymptomatic......            0
    Note (1): Coccidioidomycosis has an incubation period
     up to 21 days, and the disseminated phase is
     ordinarily manifest within 6 months of the primary
     phase. However, there are instances of dissemination
     delayed for years after the initial infection, which
     may have been unrecognized. Accordingly, when
     considering service connection, in the absence of
     record or other evidence of the disease in service,
     service in southwestern United States, where the
     disease is endemic, and absence of prolonged residence
     in this locality before or after service will be the
     deciding factor.
    Note (2): Do not combine a rating assigned under this
     formula with other ratings under Sec.   4.97, except
     for sleep apnea syndromes (DC 6847).
6834 Histoplasmosis of lung.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                      OTHER RESPIRATORY CONDITIONS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              * * * * * * *
6841 Respiratory insufficiency due to spinal cord injury.
6842 Pulmonary disease secondary to kyphoscoliosis, pectus
 excavatum, or pectus carinatum.
 
                              * * * * * * *
6847 Sleep apnea syndromes (obstructive, central, or
 mixed):
    Treatment ineffective (as determined by sleep study) or          100
     unable to use treatment due to comorbid conditions;
     and with end-organ damage.............................
    Treatment ineffective (as determined by sleep study) or           50
     unable to use treatment due to comorbid conditions;
     and without end-organ damage..........................
    Incomplete relief (as determined by sleep study) with             10
     treatment.............................................
    Asymptomatic with or without treatment.................            0
    Note: Qualifying comorbidities are conditions that, in
     the opinion of a qualified medical provider, directly
     impede or prevent the habitual use of a recognized
     form of treatment shown by sleep study to be effective
     in the affected veteran's case (e.g., contact
     dermatitis where the mask or interface touches the
     face or nares, Parkinson's disease, missing limbs,
     facial disfigurement, or skull fracture).

[[Page 8494]]

 
6848 Lung transplantation:
    Following transplant surgery...........................          100
    Thereafter, evaluate residuals under the General Rating           30
     Formula for Respiratory Conditions, minimum rating....
    Note (1): A rating of 100 percent shall be assigned as
     of the date of hospital admission for lung transplant.
     One year following discharge, the appropriate
     disability rating shall be determined by mandatory VA
     examination. Any change in evaluation based upon that
     or any subsequent examination shall be subject to the
     provisions of Sec.   3.105(e) of this chapter.
    Note (2): Do not combine a rating assigned under this
     diagnostic code with other ratings under Sec.   4.97,
     except for sleep apnea syndromes (DC 6847).
------------------------------------------------------------------------

0
13. Amend Sec.  4.104 by:
0
a. Removing Note (1);
0
b. Redesignating Note (2) as Note (1); and
0
c. Redesignating Note (3) as Note (2).
    The revisions read as follows:


Sec.  4.104   Schedule of ratings--cardiovascular system.

* * * * *

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                Rating
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note (1): One MET (metabolic equivalent) is the energy cost
 of standing quietly at rest and represents an oxygen
 uptake of 3.5 milliliters per kilogram of body weight per
 minute. When the level of METs at which breathlessness,
 fatigue, angina, dizziness, or syncope develops is
 required for evaluation, and a laboratory determination of
 METs by exercise testing cannot be done for medical
 reasons, a medical examiner may estimate the level of
 activity (expressed in METs and supported by specific
 examples, such as slow stair climbing or shoveling snow)
 that results in those symptoms.
Note (2): For this general formula, heart failure symptoms
 include, but are not limited to, breathlessness, fatigue,
 angina, dizziness, arrhythmia, palpitations, or syncope.
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------

0
14. Amend appendix A to part 4 by:
0
a. Adding entry for Sec.  4.85;
0
b. Revising entries for Sec. Sec.  4.87 and 4.87a;
0
c. Revising entries for diagnostic codes 6502 through 6516, 6518 
through 6604, 6731, and 6817, 6819, 6820, and 6822 through 6847; and
0
d. Adding entries for diagnostic codes 6848 and 6849 in numerical 
order.
    The revisions and additions read as follows:

 Appendix A to Part 4-Table of Amendments and Effective Dates Since 1946
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    Diagnostic
       Sec.          code No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              * * * * * * *
4.85.............         6100  Criterion [effective date of final
                                 rule].
4.87.............  ...........  Tables VI and VII replaced by new Tables
                                 VI, VIA, and VII December 18, 1987.
                          6200  Revised and redesignated Sec.   4.87
                                 June 10, 1999; criterion [effective
                                 date of final rule].
                          6201  Revised and redesignated Sec.   4.87
                                 June 10, 1999; criterion [effective
                                 date of final rule].
                          6202  Revised and redesignated Sec.   4.87
                                 June 10, 1999; title [effective date of
                                 final rule].
                          6204  Revised and redesignated Sec.   4.87
                                 June 10, 1999; criterion [effective
                                 date of final rule].
                          6205  Revised and redesignated Sec.   4.87
                                 June 10, 1999; criterion [effective
                                 date of final rule].
                     6207-6211  Revised and redesignated Sec.   4.87
                                 June 10, 1999.
                     6220-6240  Added [effective date of final rule].
                          6260  Revised and redesignated Sec.   4.87
                                 June 10, 1999; Removed [effective date
                                 of final rule].
4.87a............    6275-6276  Moved from Sec.   4.87b June 10, 1999.
 
                              * * * * * * *
4.97.............    6502-6514  Criterion October 7, 1996; Revised and
                                 moved to Sec.   4.87 [effective date of
                                 final rule].
                          6515  Criterion March 11, 1969; Revised and
                                 moved to Sec.   4.87 [effective date of
                                 final rule].
                          6516  Criterion October 7, 1996; Revised and
                                 moved to Sec.   4.87 [effective date of
                                 final rule].
                          6517  Removed October 7, 1996.
                     6518-6520  Criterion October 7, 1996; Revised and
                                 moved to Sec.   4.87 [effective date of
                                 final rule].
                     6521-6524  Added October 7, 1996; Revised and moved
                                 to Sec.   4.87 [effective date of final
                                 rule].
                          6600  Evaluation September 9, 1975; criterion
                                 October 7, 1996; criterion [effective
                                 date of final rule].
                          6601  Criterion October 7, 1996; criterion
                                 [effective date of final rule].
                          6602  Criterion September 9, 1975; criterion
                                 October 7, 1996; criterion [effective
                                 date of final rule].
                          6603  Added September 9, 1975; criterion
                                 October 7, 1996; criterion [effective
                                 date of final rule].
                          6604  Added October 7, 1996; criterion
                                 [effective date of final rule].
 
                              * * * * * * *
                          6731  Evaluation September 22, 1978; criterion
                                 October 7, 1996; criterion [effective
                                 date of final rule].
 
                              * * * * * * *
                          6817  Evaluation October 7, 1996; title,
                                 criterion [effective date of final
                                 rule].

[[Page 8495]]

 
 
                              * * * * * * *
                          6819  Criterion March 10, 1976; criterion
                                 October 7, 1996; criterion [effective
                                 date of final rule].
                          6820  Criterion [effective date of final
                                 rule].
                          6821  August 23, 1948; Removed October 7,
                                 1996.
                     6822-6824  Added October 7, 1996; criterion
                                 [effective date of final rule].
                          6825  Added October 7, 1996; title, criterion
                                 [effective date of final rule].
                     6826-6840  Added October 7, 1996; criterion
                                 [effective date of final rule].
                     6841-6842  Added October 7, 1996; title, criterion
                                 [effective date of final rule].
                     6843-6847  Added October 7, 1996; criterion
                                 [effective date of final rule].
                          6848  Added [effective date of final rule].
                          6849  Added [effective date of final rule].
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------

0
15. Amend appendix B to part 4 by:
0
a. Removing the heading ``THE EAR'' and adding in its place ``EAR, 
NOSE, and THROAT'';
0
b. Adding entry for diagnostic code 6100;
0
c. Revising diagnostic code 6202;
0
d. Adding diagnostic codes 6220 through 6240;
0
e. Removing diagnostic code 6260;
0
f. Removing the subheading ``Nose and Throat'';
0
g. Removing diagnostic codes 6502 through 6524;
0
h. Removing the subheading ``Trachea and Bronchi'' and adding in its 
place ``Airway Disorders (Trachea, Bronchi)'';
0
i. Removing the subheading ``Lungs and Pleura Tuberculosis'' and adding 
in its place ``Tuberculosis Lung Disease'';
0
j. Removing the subheading ``Nontuberculous Diseases'' and adding in 
its place ``Vascular Lung Disease'';
0
k. Revising diagnostic code 6817;
0
l. Adding entry for diagnostic code 6849 under diagnostic code 6817;
0
m. Adding the subheading ``Lung Neoplasms'' above diagnostic code 6819;
0
n. Republishing diagnostic code 6819;
0
o. Removing the subheading ``Bacterial Infections of the Lung'' and 
adding in its place ``Bacterial Lung Diseases'';
0
p. Removing the subheading ``Interstitial Lung Disease'' and adding in 
its place ``Parenchymal Lung Disease (Including Interstitium and 
Alveolar Spaces)'';
0
q. Revising diagnostic codes 6825, 6829, and 6830;
0
r. Removing the subheading ``Mycotic Lung Disease'' and adding in its 
place ``Mycotic Lung Diseases'';
0
s. Removing the subheading ``Restrictive Lung Disease'' and adding in 
its place ``Other Respiratory Conditions'';
0
t. Revising diagnostic codes 6841 and 6842; and
0
u. Adding diagnostic code 6848.
    The revisions and additions read as follows:

          Appendix B to Part 4--Numerical Index of Disabilities
------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Diagnostic code No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          EAR, NOSE, and THROAT
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6100...................  Hearing loss.
 
                              * * * * * * *
6202...................  Otosclerosis, stapedectomy, stapedotomy,
                          residuals of.
 
                              * * * * * * *
6220...................  Septum, nasal, deviation of.
6221...................  Nose, loss of part of, or scars.
6222...................  Rhinosinusitis, pansinusitis, chronic;
                          infectious.
6223...................  Rhinosinusitis, ethmoid, chronic; infectious.
6224...................  Rhinosinusitis, frontal, chronic; infectious.
6225...................  Rhinosinusitis, maxillary, chronic; infectious.
6226...................  Rhinosinusitis, sphenoid, chronic; infectious.
6227...................  Laryngitis, tuberculous, active or inactive.
6228...................  Laryngitis, chronic.
6229...................  Laryngectomy, total.
6230...................  Aphonia, complete organic.
6231...................  Larynx, stenosis of, including residuals of
                          laryngeal trauma (unilateral or bilateral).
6232...................  Pharynx, injuries to.
6233...................  Rhinosinusitis, allergic or nonallergic
                          (vasomotor) related.
6234...................  Rhinosinusitis, infection related.
6235...................  Rhinosinusitis, autoimmune, granulomatous, or
                          other causes.
6236...................  Vocal cord paralysis.

[[Page 8496]]

 
6237...................  Neoplasm, nasopharyngeal and/or sinus, benign.
6238...................  Neoplasm, nasopharyngeal, and/or sinus,
                          malignant.
6239...................  Salivary gland and/or associated ducts disease
                          other than neoplasm.
6240...................  Rhinitis, allergic or nonallergic (vasomotor).
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Airway Disorders (Trachea, Bronchi)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        Tuberculous Lung Diseases
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         Vascular Lung Diseases
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6817...................  Pulmonary thromboembolic disease.
6849...................  Pulmonary hypertension.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                             Lung Neoplasms
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6819...................  Neoplasms, malignant.
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         Bacterial Lung Diseases
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Parenchymal Lung Disease (Including Interstitium and Alveolar Spaces)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6825...................  Diffuse interstitial fibrosis.
 
                              * * * * * * *
6829...................  Drug-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and
                          fibrosis.
6830...................  Radiation-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and
                          fibrosis.
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                          Mycotic Lung Diseases
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                      Other Respiratory Conditions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              * * * * * * *
6841...................  Respiratory insufficiency due to spinal cord
                          injury.
6842...................  Pulmonary disease secondary to kyphoscoliosis,
                          pectus excavatum, pectus carinatum.
 
                              * * * * * * *
6848...................  Lung transplantation.
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------

0
16. Amend appendix C to part 4 by:
0
a. Revising entries for ``Aphonia, organic'' and ``Injury: Pharynx'';
0
b. Removing entry for ``Injury: Sacroiliac: Spinal cord'' and 
``Kyphoscoliosis, pectus excavatum/carinatum'';
0
c. Adding entry for ``Hearing loss'';
0
d. Revising entries for ``Laryngectomy'', ``Laryngitis:'', ``Larynx, 
stenosis of'', and ``Loss of: Nose, part of, or scars'';
0
e. Adding entries for ``Lung, transplantation of'', ``Neoplasms: 
Benign: Nasopharyngeal'', and ``Neoplasms: Malignant: Nasopharyngeal'';
0
f. Revising entry for ``Otosclerosis'';
0
g. Adding entries for ``Pulmonary: Disease secondary to kyphoscoliosis, 
pectus excavatum, pectus carinatum'' and ``Pulmonary: Hypertension'';

[[Page 8497]]

0
h. Removing entry for ``Pulmonary: Vascular disease'' and adding in its 
place ``Pulmonary: Thromboembolic disease'';
0
i. Adding entry for ``Respiratory insufficiency due to spinal cord 
injury'';
0
j. Revising entry for ``Rhinitis'';
0
k. Adding entries for ``Rhinosinusitis'', ``Salivary gland and/or 
associated ducts disease other than neoplasm'', and ``Septum, nasal, 
deviation of'';
0
l. Removing entry for ``Sinusitis'';
0
m. Revising entry for ``Sleep Apnea Syndrome'';
0
n. Removing entry for ``Tinnitus, recurrent''; and
0
o. Adding entry for ``Vocal cord paralysis''.
    The revisions and additions read as follows:

        Appendix C to Part 4--Alphabetical Index of Disabilities
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Diagnostic
                                                               code No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                              * * * * * * *
Aphonia, organic...........................................         6230
 
                              * * * * * * *
Pharynx....................................................         6232
 
                              * * * * * * *
Hearing loss...............................................         6100
 
                              * * * * * * *
Laryngectomy...............................................         6229
Laryngitis, chronic........................................         6228
Laryngitis, tuberculosis...................................         6227
Larynx, stenosis of........................................         6231
 
                              * * * * * * *
Loss of:
 
                              * * * * * * *
    Nose, part of, or scars................................         6221
 
                              * * * * * * *
Lung, transplantation of...................................         6848
 
                              * * * * * * *
Neoplasms:
    Benign:
 
                              * * * * * * *
        Nasopharyngeal.....................................         6237
 
                              * * * * * * *
    Malignant:
        Nasopharyngeal.....................................         6328
 
                              * * * * * * *
Otosclerosis, stapedectomy, stapedotomy....................         6202
 
                              * * * * * * *
Pulmonary:                                                   ...........
    Disease secondary to kyphoscoliosis, pectus excavatum,          6842
     pectus carinatum......................................
    Hypertension...........................................         6849
    Thromboembolic disease.................................         6817
 
                              * * * * * * *
Respiratory insufficiency due to spinal cord injury........         6841
 
                              * * * * * * *
Rhinitis, allergic or nonallergic (vasomotor)..............         6240
Rhinosinusitis:
    Allergic or nonallergic (vasomotor) related............         6223
    Autoimmune, granulomatous or other causes..............         6235
    Ethmoid................................................         6233
    Frontal................................................         6224
    Infection related......................................         6234
    Maxillary..............................................         6225
    Pansinusitis...........................................         6222
    Sphenoid...............................................         6226
 
                              * * * * * * *
Salivary gland and/or associated ducts disease other than           6239
 neoplasm..................................................

[[Page 8498]]

 
 
                              * * * * * * *
Septum, nasal, deviation of................................         6220
 
                              * * * * * * *
Sleep apnea syndromes......................................         6847
 
                              * * * * * * *
Vocal cord paralysis.......................................         6236
 
                              * * * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------

[FR Doc. 2022-02049 Filed 2-14-22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 8320-01-P