Tuberculosis, bones and joints
38 CFR § 4.71a — Musculoskeletal system
Schedule listing: tuberculosis, bones and joints.
Diagnostic code
5001
DC 5001 applies when the rated disability falls under musculoskeletal tuberculosis involving bone or joint structures. Evaluations are tied to the stage and residuals described for this code in 38 CFR § 4.71a, not to civilian billing codes alone.
TB claims often hinge on service records, public health treatment summaries, and long-term orthopedic or pulmonary follow-up. Ratings may change as the condition moves from active to quiescent phases—always compare your evidence to the current regulatory text.
Use accredited help for presumptive TB rules, effective dates, and any interaction with other body systems.
Official VA rating criteria — tuberculosis, bones and joints (DC 5001)
Skeletal TB is rated on residual ankylosis, deformity, neurologic compromise, and constitutional effects after treatment.
| Rating | VA criteria (themes) | Key evidence at this level |
|---|---|---|
| 40–100% | Active disease, severe structural damage, or neurologic deficit as described for the DC and era-specific presumptives if applicable. | Culture/pathology, imaging, ID treatment records. |
| 20–30% | Residual joint limitation or chronic pain after therapy. | Post-treatment orthopedics, PT. |
| 10% | Mild residuals. | Periodic imaging stability. |
| 0% | Cured without measurable residual disability. | Completion of therapy with normal function. |
Source: 38 CFR § 4.71a — DC 5001 (verify presumptive TB rules separately).
Service connection — common paths
Direct service connection
Direct connection when tuberculosis of bones/joints is related to service per STRs and medical evidence.
Secondary service connection
Secondary theories uncommon without specific medical nexus to another SC disability.
Secondary conditions sometimes pursued with Tuberculosis, bones and joints
Skeletal TB residuals may include joint ankylosis, pain, neurologic compromise from spine involvement, and mental health effects when documented.
Depends on joints affected after treatment.
Long illness and functional loss may factor into mental-health ratings.
“Strong” / “Moderate” / “Developing” reflect how often these theories appear in educational materials—not a prediction of approval. Use accredited help for your specific file.
Already service-connected for something else?
TB may be service-connected when linked to in-service exposure or diagnosis; verify presumptive TB rules for your service era where applicable.
Service treatment records and post-service continuity matter.
Last verified against 38 CFR (eCFR Part 4):
Rating criteria (38 CFR Part 4)
Diagnostic code 5001 — Tuberculosis, bones and joints — is listed under 38 CFR § 4.71a in 38 CFR Part 4. The paragraphs below summarize how this code is used; the official schedule text controls exact percentages, formulas, and notes.
Schedule summary (educational, not a substitute for the regulation): Use 38 CFR § 4.71a and locate DC 5001 for the full rating table and notes.
Exact rating criteria: Open Part 4 in the eCFR (link under “Official source” below). Locate your diagnostic code number (5001) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / ⌘F) for “5001”. Copy the verbatim rating table, including any parenthetical notes, exceptions, and cross-references, for the version of Part 4 that applies to your effective date.
Effective dates & which schedule version applies
Which diagnostic code, percentage, and effective date apply depends on the facts of your claim and the version of the rating schedule in force for the period being decided. Generally, VA applies the schedule in effect at the specified time under 38 U.S.C. § 5110 and implementing rules, subject to exceptions (e.g., protected ratings, liberalizing law changes—see regulation and VA manual policy as applicable).
For older claims, the **current** eCFR may not match the text that applied years ago. If your decision references a prior percentage or code, compare against the Part 4 text **as of** your claim’s relevant dates; historical Federal Register / CFR snapshots may be needed for precise comparison.
The “Last verified” date on this page is when we last checked this educational summary against the electronic CFR—not the date of any VA policy or your personal claim decision.
Notes for your claim
Evidence: Show that your diagnosis and severity match the factors the schedule names for DC 5001 (e.g., measurements, frequency, treatment, functional loss), with medical and lay evidence as appropriate.
C&P exams: Results should reflect the schedule’s requirements (correct joints measured, correct formulas). If the exam omits required findings, consider submitting records or requesting clarification.
If you disagree with the DC, percentage, or effective date, review the Part 4 text for your period and consider a supplemental claim or appeal with a VA-accredited representative.
This site does not provide legal advice.
Official source
38 CFR Part 4 (eCFR) — locate diagnostic code 5001 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
Discuss how your evidence fits DC 5001 with a VA-accredited representative. Quick search: DC code lookup.
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This page provides general educational information only based on public VA regulations (38 CFR) and va.gov resources. It is not legal, medical, or claims assistance. Ratings and service connections are decided case-by-case by the VA based on the individual veteran’s evidence. We do not prepare claims, generate documents, or provide personalized advice. Always consult a VA-accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO), attorney, or your physician for help with your specific situation. Verify the latest rules on va.gov.