Granulomatous disease

For the 100% level, medical records showing an active infection matter most — specifically, documented systemic symptoms such as measured fever, recorded night sweats, weight loss with before-and-after weights, or lab or imaging findings confirming active disease. Pulmonologist or infectious disease notes that describe your current clinical status are especially useful here. For residual ratings after the active phase, the evidence depends on the analogy VA applies. If your residuals are rated as interstitial or restrictive lung disease, pulmonary function test results showing reduced lung volumes or diffusing capacity are central. If your residuals are rated as chronic bronchitis, spirometry showing airflow obstruction is key. In either case, imaging such as chest X-rays or CT scans that document structural changes, along with your treating provider's notes describing how your breathing difficulties affect your daily activities and ability to work, help show the severity of what remains.