Retinal scars, atrophy, or irregularities
Retinal scars, atrophy, or irregularities is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.79, Diagnostic Code 6011, from 10% to 10% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 10% rating requires: Localized scars, atrophy, or irregularities of the retina, unilateral or bilateral, that are centrally located and that result in an irregular, duplicated, enlarged, or diminished image. Most claims establish the 10% or 10% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 6011 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 10%
- Rating tiers
- 1
- 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%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Retinal scars, atrophy, or irregularities?
Localized scars, atrophy, or irregularities of the retina, unilateral or bilateral, that are centrally located and that result in an irregular, duplicated, enlarged, or diminished image
“Localized scars, atrophy, or irregularities of the retina, unilateral or bilateral, that are centrally located and that result in an irregular, duplicated, enlarged, or diminished image”
Common Questions About Retinal scars, atrophy, or irregularities VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Retinal scars, atrophy, or irregularities?
The VA rates Retinal scars, atrophy, or irregularities under Diagnostic Code 6011 at 10%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Localized scars, atrophy, or irregularities of the retina, unilateral or bilateral, that are centrally located and that result in an irregular, duplicated, enlarged, or diminished image. The maximum 10% rating requires: Localized scars, atrophy, or irregularities of the retina, unilateral or bilateral, that are centrally located and that result in an irregular, duplicated, enlarged, or diminished image.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Retinal scars, atrophy, or irregularities?
The VA rates Retinal scars, atrophy, or irregularities under Diagnostic Code (DC) 6011, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.79. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
Can Retinal scars, atrophy, or irregularities qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Retinal scars, atrophy, or irregularities 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 Retinal scars, atrophy, or irregularities?
Service connection for Retinal scars, atrophy, or irregularities 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 Retinal scars, atrophy, or irregularities?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Retinal scars, atrophy, or irregularities 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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