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5005
§ 4.71a Schedule of ratings—musculoskeletal system.

Pneumococcal arthritis

Joint inflammation caused by pneumococcal bacteria spreading to the joints.

What the rating means

Pneumococcal arthritis (diagnostic code 5005) has no rating rows of its own. VA rates it by referencing other diagnostic codes in the musculoskeletal schedule, depending on how the condition affects the joint or joints involved. If a joint has been resurfaced or replaced with a prosthetic implant, VA rates the condition under diagnostic codes 5051 through 5056. When a rating is assigned for joint resurfacing or prosthetic replacement under those codes, VA cannot also assign a separate rating for the same joint under another code, unless the schedule specifically directs otherwise. A revision procedure is rated the same way as the original only if all original components are replaced. After a prosthetic implant, a 100 percent rating period follows the one-month total rating given after hospital discharge, with its length depending on which joint is involved. Special monthly compensation may be assignable during that 100 percent period once permanent use of crutches is established.

Evidence that helps

Because this condition is rated by reference to other diagnostic codes, the evidence that helps depends on what has happened to the affected joint. If a joint has been surgically resurfaced or replaced, your medical records should document the procedure clearly, including the date of surgery, discharge date, and whether all original components were replaced in any revision procedure. Operative and pathology reports help establish which joint was treated and what type of procedure was performed. Post-surgical records showing the need for crutches, including physician notes stating that crutch use is permanent, are relevant to special monthly compensation. If no surgery has occurred, records documenting the range of motion, pain, and functional loss in the affected joint support rating under the applicable musculoskeletal code. Statements from you or people who know you that describe how joint pain or limited movement affects your ability to work, walk, or carry out daily tasks can help show the full extent of your disability.

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.