Epilepsy, diencephalic
The VA rates Epilepsy, diencephalic under Diagnostic Code 8913 across 6 severity levels, from 10% to 100%. At 100%, veterans receive $3939/month or more in compensation.
Rating schedule — DC 8913 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 100%
- Rating tiers
- 6
- CFR section
- § 4.124a
- Body system
- Neurological Conditions
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
Full schedular disability
10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, 100%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Epilepsy, diencephalic?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | A confirmed diagnosis of epilepsy with a history of seizures Note: Via General Rating Formula for Major and Minor Epileptic Seizures: |
| 20% | At least 1 major seizure in the last 2 years; or at least 2 minor seizures in the last 6 months Note: Via General Rating Formula for Major and Minor Epileptic Seizures: |
| 40% | At least 1 major seizure in the last 6 months or 2 in the last year; or averaging at least 5 to 8 minor seizures weekly Note: Via General Rating Formula for Major and Minor Epileptic Seizures: |
| 60% | Averaging at least 1 major seizure in 4 months over the last year; or 9-10 minor seizures per week Note: Via General Rating Formula for Major and Minor Epileptic Seizures: |
| 80% | Averaging at least 1 major seizure in 3 months over the last year; or more than 10 minor seizures weekly Note: Via General Rating Formula for Major and Minor Epileptic Seizures: |
| 100% | Averaging at least 1 major seizure per month over the last year Note: Via General Rating Formula for Major and Minor Epileptic Seizures: |
“Averaging at least 1 major seizure in 4 months over the last year; or 9-10 minor seizures per week”
Common Questions About Epilepsy, diencephalic VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Epilepsy, diencephalic?
The VA rates Epilepsy, diencephalic under Diagnostic Code 8913 at 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, 100%. The minimum 10% rating requires: A confirmed diagnosis of epilepsy with a history of seizures. The maximum 100% rating requires: Averaging at least 1 major seizure per month over the last year.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Epilepsy, diencephalic?
The VA rates Epilepsy, diencephalic under Diagnostic Code (DC) 8913, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.124a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 10% and a 100% rating for Epilepsy, diencephalic?
A 10% rating requires: A confirmed diagnosis of epilepsy with a history of seizures. A 100% rating requires: Averaging at least 1 major seizure per month over the last year. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Epilepsy, diencephalic qualify for TDIU?
Yes — a 100% rating for Epilepsy, diencephalic alone meets the single-disability threshold for TDIU (38 CFR § 4.16). If the condition prevents substantially gainful employment, the veteran is compensated at the 100% rate without a schedular 100% rating.
What evidence supports a higher rating for Epilepsy, diencephalic?
The key evidence for Epilepsy, diencephalic is documentation of how the condition affects daily functioning. For neurological conditions, nerve conduction studies, EMG results, and documentation of complete vs incomplete paralysis distinguish the rating tiers. 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 Epilepsy, diencephalic?
The C&P examiner uses a Neurological Conditions DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 8913 rating criteria. The examiner tests reflexes, sensation, and motor function. If nerve damage is suspected, EMG or nerve conduction studies may be ordered. Distinguish between complete and incomplete paralysis — the rating difference is significant.
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