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6316
§ 4.88b Schedule of ratings—infectious diseases, immune disorders and nutritional deficiencies.

Other nutritional deficiency

Any other chronic vitamin or mineral deficiency with clinical manifestations (due to starvation)

What the rating means

Brucellosis is rated under the General Rating Formula for Infectious Diseases. When the disease is active, VA rates it at 100 percent. Once the active disease has resolved, the infection itself is rated at 0 percent. However, if the infection leaves behind lasting problems — such as meningitis, liver or spleen conditions, or musculoskeletal conditions — VA rates each of those residual disabilities separately under the body system it affects.

The initial diagnosis and any recurrence of active infection must be confirmed by culture testing, serologic testing, or both. Without that confirmation, the criteria for an active-disease rating cannot be met. If you have long-term health effects that may be associated with Brucellosis, VA may also consider those effects under the standards set out in § 3.317(d).

Evidence that helps

For a 100 percent rating during active disease, evidence needs to show that Brucellosis is currently active and confirmed. Laboratory records showing positive cultures or positive serologic test results are central to meeting this standard. Treatment records, hospitalization records, and physician notes documenting active signs and symptoms all support this level.

Once the active disease has resolved, the focus shifts to any lasting damage it caused. Medical records documenting diagnosed residual conditions — for example, inflammation of the meninges, liver or spleen findings on imaging or biopsy, or joint and bone problems — are key. Exam findings, imaging results, specialist evaluations, and records showing how these residuals affect your ability to work or carry out daily activities all help establish the appropriate rating under the relevant body system. If you have ongoing or late-appearing health effects tied to the infection, records connecting those effects to the original Brucellosis diagnosis are also relevant.

Secondary conditions

Conditions that are often caused or made worse by this one. If you have any of these, they may be claimable as secondary service connection.