DC 6845: Ongoing pleural effusion occurs when excess fluid builds up between the lung and the chest wall, and pleural fibrosis occurs when excess connective tissues build up between the lung and the chest wall. These conditions are rated on the Respiratory Rating System.
| Test | Result/Condition | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| FVC | Less than 50% | 100% |
| FVC | 50-64% | 60% |
| FVC | 65-74% | 30% |
| FVC | 75-80% | 10% |
| DLCO (SB) | Less than 40% | 100% |
| DLCO (SB) | 40-55% | 60% |
| DLCO (SB) | 56-65% | 30% |
| DLCO (SB) | 66-80% | 10% |
| Exercise Test | Less than 15 ml/kg/min with the limitation caused by a | |
| heart or respiratory condition | 100% | |
| Exercise Test | 15-20 ml/kg/min with the limitation caused by a heart or | |
| respiratory condition | 60% | |
| Heart Conditions | Cor Pulmonale (right heart failure) | 100% |
| Heart Conditions | Pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure between the | |
| lungs and the heart) | 100% | |
| Other | Requires oxygen therapy outside a medical facility | 100% |