VA Disability Rating for Choroidopathy and Uveitis (DC 6000)
Diagnostic Code 6000 · 38 CFR §4.79
What Is It?
Choroidopathy encompasses a group of inflammatory eye conditions affecting the uveal tract, the middle vascular layer of the eye. This diagnostic code covers uveitis (general inflammation), iritis (inflammation of the iris), cyclitis (inflammation of the ciliary body), and choroiditis (inflammation of the choroid). These conditions cause eye pain, redness, light sensitivity, blurred vision, and floaters. In veterans, uveitis can develop from autoimmune conditions, infections contracted during service, or direct trauma to the eye. Chronic or recurrent inflammation can lead to permanent vision loss, cataracts, and glaucoma. The VA rates this condition under the General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Eye, based on either incapacitating episodes requiring treatment visits or the resulting visual impairment, whichever produces a higher rating.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 60% | Seven or more incapacitating episodes requiring treatment visits for the eye condition 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 treatment visits for incapacitating episodes during the past 12 months. |
| 10% | At least one but fewer than three treatment visits for incapacitating episodes during the past 12 months. |
Evidence Needed
Ophthalmology records documenting the specific type of uveitis and its location are essential. Slit-lamp examination findings from both active and inactive periods help establish severity. Visual acuity testing during and between inflammatory episodes shows functional impact. Treatment records including steroid or immunosuppressive medications demonstrate the severity of the condition. Documentation of any complications such as cataracts, glaucoma, or macular edema strengthens your claim.
C&P Exam Tips
Schedule the exam during or close to an active flare if possible for accurate documentation. Bring a log of flare-up dates, severity, and duration over the past year. Have records showing medication use including steroid eye drops and oral immunosuppressants. Describe how episodes affect your daily activities, driving, and work. Mention any complications that have developed from chronic inflammation.
How to File
File under DC 6000 with ophthalmology records showing the pattern of inflammation over time. Document flare frequency and severity over the past 12 months. If the uveitis has caused complications like cataracts or glaucoma, file those as secondary conditions. Also include visual acuity and visual field testing if vision loss has occurred.
Common Mistakes
The most common mistake is not documenting flare frequency, since the VA rates based on how often incapacitating episodes occur. Missing the window to document inflammation during active flares is another frequent problem. Veterans also often overlook filing for steroid-induced cataracts or glaucoma as secondary conditions, and some fail to connect uveitis to an underlying autoimmune condition or in-service infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the VA count incapacitating episodes for eye conditions?
An incapacitating episode is defined as a period of acute eye inflammation severe enough to require a clinic visit to a provider specifically for treatment purposes. Document each episode with your ophthalmologist, including the dates and prescribed treatment.
Can uveitis be connected to other service-connected conditions?
Yes. Many autoimmune conditions like ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, and sarcoidosis commonly cause uveitis. If you have a service-connected autoimmune condition, uveitis can be claimed as secondary to that condition.