6830 - Radiation-induced pulmonary pneumonitis and fibrosis
DBQ: Link to Index of DBQ/Exams by Disability for DC 6830
Definition
Pneumonitis is defined as inflammation of the lungs due to radiation therapy. Fibrosis is the formation of scar tissue in the lungs following radiation therapy.
Etiology
Radiation therapy of the lungs is the cause of the pneumonitis and fibrosis. This therapy is used in the treatment of malignant neoplasms.
Signs & Symptoms
The condition may be acute or chronic, and usually appears 2 to 6 months after therapy is completed. Cough without sputum production, dyspnea, a low-grade fever, and a cloudy infiltrate on chest x-ray are among the signs and symptoms. The infiltrates may develop into alveoli infiltrates, and progress to respiratory failure.
Tests
Chest x-ray is used, and a lung biopsy may be necessary.
Treatment
Prednisone is administered for symptoms and fever. The drug will be tapered off after the pneumonitis has resolved.
Residuals
Years after radiation, fibrosis may appear as evidenced by dyspnea on exertion. The condition is usually mild; however, it can progress to chronic respiratory failure.
Special Considerations
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May be entitled to special monthly compensation where the Veteran has a single service-connected disability rated as 100% with additional service-connected disability or disabilities independently ratable at 60% or more, which are separate and distinct from the 100% service-connected disability and involves different anatomical segments or bodily systems. See 38 CFR 3.350(i)(1) – Special Monthly Compensation (SMC).
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Review 38 CFR 3.809a for eligibility for entitlement to Special Home Adaptation grants under 38 U.S.C. 2101(b)
Notes
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Review special provisions regarding the evaluation of specific respiratory conditions under 38 CFR 4.96(a) - Rating co-existing respiratory conditions and 38 CFR 4.96(d) - Special provisions for the application of evaluation criteria for diagnostic codes 6600, 6603, 6604, 6825–6833, and 6840–6845.