Septum, nasal, deviation of — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 6502)

The VA rates Septum, nasal, deviation of under Diagnostic Code 6502 at the following tiers: 10%. The minimum 10% rating requires: With 50-percent obstruction of the nasal passage on both sides or complete obstruction on one side. The maximum 10% rating requires: With 50-percent obstruction of the nasal passage on both sides or complete obstruction on one side.

Diagnostic Code 6502 is the VA rating identifier for Septum, nasal, deviation of within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97. 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 Septum, nasal, deviation of under DC 6502 is 10%. This tier requires: With 50-percent obstruction of the nasal passage on both sides or complete obstruction on one side. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Septum, nasal, deviation of alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Septum, nasal, deviation of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6502. 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 Septum, nasal, deviation of 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 Septum, nasal, deviation of 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.