DC 6025Organs of Special SenseCriteria from 38 CFR § 4.79, DC 6025

Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.)

The VA rates Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.) under Diagnostic Code 6025 across 2 severity levels, from 10% to 20%. The applicable level depends on the full criteria and the evidence for the condition. These percentages are alternatives, not amounts to add together.

Rating schedule — DC 6025 at a glance

Minimum rating
10%

Lowest schedular rating available

Maximum rating
20%

TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%

Rating tiers
2

10%, 20%

CFR section
§ 4.79

Where this code is published

Body system
Organs of Special Sense
Secondary conditions
0

None mapped

What are the VA rating criteria for Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.)?

RatingCriteria
10%

Unilateral

20%

Bilateral

“Bilateral”

These diagnostic codes sit next to Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.) in 38 CFR Part 4. The rating schedule is ordered anatomically, so neighbouring codes usually cover the same joint, organ, or system, and a claim often involves more than one of them.

  1. 6020EctropionRated up to 20%
  2. 6021EntropionRated up to 20%
  3. 6022LagophthalmosRated up to 20%
  4. 6023Loss of eyebrows, complete, unilateral or bilateralRated up to 10%
  5. 6024Loss of eyelashes, complete, unilateral or bilateralRated up to 10%
  6. 6027AphakiaRated up to 30%
  7. 6029Aphakia or dislocation of crystalline lensRated up to 30%
  8. 6030Paralysis of accommodation (due to neuropathy of the Oculomotor Nerve (cranial nerve III)).Rated up to 20%
  9. 6036Status post corneal transplantRated up to 10%
  10. 6061Anatomical loss of both eyes 1Rated up to 100%
All 34 organs of special sense conditions

The tools, regulations and guides that pick up where the criteria above leave off.

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, published in 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?

Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.) maxes at 20%, well below the single-disability TDIU threshold. However, combined with other service-connected disabilities, TDIU may be achievable under 38 CFR § 4.16. Focus on establishing secondary conditions to increase the combined rating.

What evidence supports a higher rating for Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.)?

The key evidence for Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.) is documentation of how the condition affects daily functioning. Treatment records showing worsening symptoms, functional limitations documented by your provider, and buddy statements describing observable impact on daily life all strengthen the claim. A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional linking the current severity to service is essential for contested claims.

What happens at the C&P exam for Disorders of the lacrimal apparatus (epiphora, dacryocystitis, etc.)?

The C&P examiner uses a Organs of Special Sense DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 6025 rating criteria. The examiner documents symptom frequency, severity, and functional impact. Bring all treatment records and describe your worst days, not your best — the VA rates on the full clinical picture across time, not a snapshot of one good day.

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