Sinusitis, pansinusitis, chronic (DC 6510) | VA Rating Tool
| Diagnostic Code | 6510 |
|---|---|
| Category | The Respiratory System |
| Subcategory | Nose and Throat |
| Also Known As | Pansinusitis, sinus infection, sinusitis, chronic sinusitis, sinus problems, sinus pressure, congestion, upper respiratory infection, URI, sinus infection, cold |
| CFR Section | 38 CFR § 4.97 |
📊 What Veterans Actually Get
Chronic sinusitis is most commonly rated at 10% (one or two incapacitating episodes per year requiring prolonged antibiotic treatment, or three to six non-incapacitating episodes per year). The 30% requires three+ incapacitating episodes or six+ non-incapacitating.
Next Steps for This Condition
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 50% | Following radical surgery with chronic osteomyelitis, or; near constant sinusitis characterized by headaches, pain and tenderness of affected sinus, and purulent discharge or crusting after repeated surgeries |
| 30% | Three or more incapacitating episodes per year of sinusitis requiring prolonged (lasting four to six weeks) antibiotic treatment, or; more than six non-incapacitating episodes per year of sinusitis characterized by headaches, pain, and purulent discharge or crusting |
| 10% | One or two incapacitating episodes per year of sinusitis requiring prolonged (lasting four to six weeks) antibiotic treatment, or; three to six non-incapacitating episodes per year of sinusitis characterized by headaches, pain, and purulent discharge or crusting |
| 0% | Detected by X-ray only |
Conditions Secondary to This
4 linksChronic nasal congestion and inflammation obstruct airways during sleep
Upper airway inflammation worsens lower airway conditions
Chronic sinus pain and fatigue contribute to depression
Sinus pressure and inflammation trigger headaches and migraines
This May Be Secondary To
3 linksChronic rhinitis frequently leads to sinusitis
Deviated septum impairs sinus drainage, causing chronic sinusitis
Chronic inflammation affects entire respiratory tract
Disclaimer: Secondary connections shown are based on commonly established medical links. Individual claims require medical evidence. Consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney.