Evidence Checklist: Chronic Sinusitis

CT scan of sinuses documenting mucosal diseaseCritical

CT imaging is the gold standard for chronic sinusitis, showing mucosal thickening, opacification, air-fluid levels, or anatomical findings. The Lund-Mackay CT score is commonly used to grade severity.

ENT evaluation with nasal endoscopy findingsCritical

An otolaryngologist evaluation including nasal endoscopy documenting mucosal edema, purulent discharge, polyps, or septal deviation contributing to sinus obstruction.

Nexus opinion linking chronic sinusitis to service ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion connecting your chronic sinusitis to in-service upper respiratory infections, environmental exposures, or traumatic injury to the nose or sinuses during military service.

Documentation of incapacitating episodes requiring antibioticsCritical

Medical records documenting episodes requiring physician-prescribed antibiotics or other prescription treatment. VA rates chronic sinusitis based on the number of incapacitating episodes per year.

Treatment records (antibiotics, corticosteroids, surgery)

Records documenting antibiotic courses, intranasal or systemic corticosteroids, nasal saline irrigation, and any endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) with operative reports.

Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

Completed DBQ Sinusitis/Rhinitis and Other Conditions of the Nose, Throat, Larynx, and PharynxCritical

Standardized form capturing sinusitis findings, incapacitating episode frequency, treatment history, and surgical history.

Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.