Chronic lung abscess

To support a 100% rating during an active infection, medical records showing current, confirmed lung abscess activity matter most. Records documenting systemic symptoms — measured fever, documented night sweats, tracked weight loss, or clinically observed hemoptysis — directly match the criteria. Lab results, imaging such as CT scans or chest X-rays showing an active abscess, and treating physician notes describing the course of infection all help show that systemic symptoms are present. For residual ratings after the active infection, the evidence needed shifts to match the residual condition being rated. Pulmonary function test results, diffusion capacity measurements, or exercise test findings would support an interstitial or restrictive lung disease rating. Spirometry showing airflow obstruction would support rating under chronic bronchitis. Your own statements describing how breathing difficulties affect your daily activities and work can help show the functional impact of any residuals.