VA Disability Rating for Angle-Closure Glaucoma (DC 6012)
Diagnostic Code 6012 · 38 CFR §4.79
What Is It?
Angle-closure glaucoma occurs when the drainage angle of the eye becomes blocked, causing rapid or gradual buildup of pressure that damages the optic nerve. Unlike the more common open-angle glaucoma (DC 6013), angle-closure glaucoma can cause sudden acute attacks with severe eye pain, headaches, nausea, and rapid vision loss. Chronic angle-closure develops more slowly but can be equally damaging. Veterans may develop this condition from eye injuries during service, anatomical predisposition aggravated by service conditions, or as a complication of other eye conditions or medications. The VA provides a minimum 10% rating when continuous medication is required, and higher ratings based on incapacitating episodes or visual impairment under the General Rating Formula.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 60% | Seven or more incapacitating episodes requiring treatment visits during the past 12 months, or visual impairment equivalent to this level. |
| 40% | At least five but fewer than seven treatment visits for incapacitating episodes during the past 12 months. |
| 20% | At least three but fewer than five incapacitating episodes requiring treatment visits during the past 12 months, or moderate visual impairment. |
| 10% | Minimum rating when continuous medication is required. Also applies with at least one but fewer than three incapacitating treatment visits during the past 12 months. |
Evidence Needed
A current diagnosis of angle-closure glaucoma from an ophthalmologist is required. Formal visual acuity testing and visual field testing (Goldmann or Humphrey perimetry) are the most important evidence. The VA rates based on the best corrected vision, so bring your current glasses or contact lens prescription. Intraocular pressure measurements and optic nerve evaluations document disease severity. If glaucoma resulted from an in-service eye injury, include the service treatment records. If it developed secondary to diabetes or long-term steroid use for a service-connected condition, you need a nexus opinion.
C&P Exam Tips
The eye C&P exam involves standard ophthalmological testing including visual acuity charts, intraocular pressure measurement, and visual field testing. Make sure you bring your corrective lenses. During visual field testing, respond honestly to the peripheral light stimuli. If you have difficulty with specific tasks due to vision loss, mention those during the interview. If your glaucoma requires ongoing treatment (eye drops, laser procedures, or surgery), describe your treatment regimen and any side effects.
How to File
File on VA Form 21-526EZ under eye conditions. If glaucoma is secondary to service-connected diabetes, medication side effects, or an eye injury, identify the primary condition and include a nexus opinion. Submit recent ophthalmology records including visual acuity and visual field test results.
Common Mistakes
The most common mistake is not obtaining formal visual field testing before filing. Glaucoma primarily damages peripheral vision, and if your claim only includes visual acuity numbers, you may miss the higher rating available based on field loss. Another mistake is not claiming glaucoma secondary to diabetes when applicable. Veterans also sometimes do not realize that both eyes must be tested and reported.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the VA rate glaucoma specifically?
The VA rates glaucoma based on the resulting visual impairment (either reduced visual acuity or visual field loss, whichever produces a higher rating) or on incapacitating episodes under the General Rating Formula, whichever is more favorable. There is also a minimum 10% rating when continuous medication is required.
Can glaucoma be secondary to diabetes?
Yes. Diabetes increases the risk of developing glaucoma. If you are service-connected for diabetes and develop glaucoma, you can file a secondary claim. An ophthalmologist's nexus opinion linking the two conditions strengthens the claim.