Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.)
Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.79, Diagnostic Code 6025, from 10% to 20% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 20% rating requires: Bilateral. Most claims establish the 10% or 20% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 6025 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 20%
- Rating tiers
- 2
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.79
- Body system
- Organs of Special Sense
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
10%, 20%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.)?
Unilateral
Bilateral
“Bilateral”
Common Questions About Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.) VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.)?
The VA rates Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.) under Diagnostic Code 6025 at 10%, 20%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Unilateral. The maximum 20% rating requires: Bilateral.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.)?
The VA rates Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 6025, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.79. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 10% and a 20% rating for Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.)?
A 10% rating requires: Unilateral. A 20% rating requires: Bilateral. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.) qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.) may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.)?
Service connection for Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.) requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.
What is the C&P exam like for Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.)?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.) uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.
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