Chronic otitis externa — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 6210)

The VA rates Chronic otitis externa under Diagnostic Code 6210 at the following tiers: 10%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Swelling, dry and scaly or serous discharge, and itching requiring frequent and prolonged treatment. The maximum 10% rating requires: Swelling, dry and scaly or serous discharge, and itching requiring frequent and prolonged treatment.

Diagnostic Code 6210 is the VA rating identifier for Chronic otitis externa within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.87. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Chronic otitis externa under DC 6210 is 10%. This tier requires: Swelling, dry and scaly or serous discharge, and itching requiring frequent and prolonged treatment. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Chronic otitis externa alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Chronic otitis externa is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.87, Diagnostic Code 6210. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Chronic otitis externa may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Chronic otitis externa requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.