VA Disability Rating for Jacksonian Epilepsy (DC 8912)
Diagnostic Code 8912 · 38 CFR §4.124a
What Is It?
Jacksonian epilepsy (also called Jacksonian march) is a type of focal motor seizure that begins with twitching or jerking in one specific body part — typically a hand, foot, or one side of the face — and then progressively spreads to involve more of that side of the body. The seizure marches along the body following the mapped organization of the motor cortex. Veterans commonly develop this type of seizure from traumatic brain injuries with focal cortical damage, brain surgery scars, or shrapnel injuries to specific areas of the brain. The focal nature of these seizures points to a specific area of brain damage.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Averaging at least 1 major seizure per month over the last year. The formula prints no minor-seizure frequency at this level, so it is reached only on major seizures. |
| 80% | Averaging at least 1 major seizure in 3 months over the last year, or more than 10 minor seizures weekly. |
| 60% | Averaging at least 1 major seizure in 4 months over the last year, or 9 to 10 minor seizures per week. |
| 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. |
| 20% | At least 1 major seizure in the last 2 years, or at least 2 minor seizures in the last 6 months. |
| 10% | A confirmed diagnosis of epilepsy with a history of seizures. When continuous medication is shown necessary for control, 10 percent is the minimum evaluation, and it is not combined with any other rating for epilepsy. |
Evidence Needed
- EEG showing focal seizure activity in the motor cortex region
- Brain MRI showing the focal lesion or scar responsible for the seizures
- Detailed seizure diary documenting the march pattern, frequency, and duration
- Neurologist's examination and diagnosis
- Service records documenting the brain injury or condition causing the focal damage
- Treatment records for anti-seizure medications and their effectiveness
C&P Exam Tips
- Describe the typical seizure pattern — where it starts, how it spreads, how long it lasts
- Keep a detailed seizure log with dates, times, and descriptions
- Report whether seizures ever spread to become generalized (full-body) convulsions
- Bring brain imaging showing the focal lesion
- Describe any post-seizure weakness (Todd's paralysis) and how long it lasts
- Explain how the seizures affect your ability to work, drive, and perform daily activities
How to File
File under DC 8912 for Jacksonian epilepsy. The schedule rates DC 8912 as minor seizures under the General Rating Formula for Major and Minor Epileptic Seizures, except that when major and minor seizures both occur, the predominating type is rated. Include EEG results, brain imaging showing the focal lesion, and a detailed seizure diary. If the seizures are caused by a service-connected TBI, document that connection. The focal brain lesion itself may also cause separate ratable deficits beyond the seizures.
Common Mistakes
- Not documenting the march pattern.
- Not claiming the underlying brain lesion separately.
- Not recording minor focal seizures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Jacksonian epilepsy different from other seizure types?
Jacksonian seizures start in one specific body part and progressively spread along that side of the body, following the organization of the brain's motor strip. This march pattern distinguishes them from other focal seizures. They can sometimes spread to become full generalized seizures.
Can Jacksonian seizures be controlled with medication?
Many patients achieve good seizure control with anti-epileptic medications. However, focal seizures from structural brain damage can be more resistant to medication than other seizure types. When continuous medication is shown necessary for control, the schedule sets 10 percent as the minimum evaluation.