VA Disability Rating for Intraocular Hemorrhage (DC 6007)
Diagnostic Code 6007 · 38 CFR §4.79
What Is It?
Intraocular hemorrhage refers to bleeding inside the eye, which can occur in the anterior chamber (hyphema), the vitreous cavity (vitreous hemorrhage), or under or within the retina. In veterans, intraocular bleeding commonly results from blast injuries, direct eye trauma, diabetic retinopathy, or blood vessel abnormalities. The blood can block light from reaching the retina, causing sudden vision loss. While some hemorrhages clear on their own, recurrent bleeding or associated retinal damage can cause permanent vision impairment. The VA rates this condition under the General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Eye.
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 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 hemorrhage location and extent are essential. Visual acuity testing during and after hemorrhage episodes, documentation of the cause (trauma, diabetic retinopathy, etc.), treatment records including any surgical intervention, and records of recurrent episodes over time all strengthen your claim.
C&P Exam Tips
Document each bleeding episode with dates and visual impact. Bring records showing the cause of the hemorrhages. Have visual acuity results from before, during, and after episodes. Describe how sudden vision loss episodes affect daily activities and safety. If episodes are recurrent, emphasize the pattern and unpredictability.
How to File
File under DC 6007 with ophthalmology records documenting the hemorrhages and their cause. If bleeding is secondary to diabetic retinopathy or trauma during service, establish that connection. The VA will rate based on either the hemorrhage episodes or the resulting visual impairment, whichever is more favorable.
Common Mistakes
Not documenting each hemorrhage episode promptly with an eye specialist is the most common mistake, since blood can clear before the next appointment. Failing to connect the bleeding to a service-related cause, not getting visual acuity tested after each episode to document impact, and overlooking glaucoma that develops from blood blocking the eye drainage system are all frequently seen errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a single traumatic hemorrhage from service be rated?
Yes. Even a single episode can be service-connected if it occurred during or was caused by military service. The rating will depend on residual visual impairment. If there is no lasting damage, the rating may be low, but any permanent vision loss can be rated under visual acuity codes.
What if my hemorrhages are from diabetic retinopathy?
If your diabetes is service-connected, vitreous hemorrhages from diabetic retinopathy are rated as secondary to the diabetes. These are among the most common causes of intraocular hemorrhage in veterans and can support significant disability ratings based on visual impairment.