VA Disability Rating for Scleritis (DC 6002)
Diagnostic Code 6002 · 38 CFR §4.79
What Is It?
Scleritis is a painful inflammatory condition of the sclera, the white outer wall of the eye. Unlike the more common and benign episcleritis, scleritis involves deeper tissue inflammation and can threaten vision. The condition causes severe boring eye pain that may worsen at night, redness, tenderness, and sometimes vision changes. In veterans, scleritis often occurs in association with autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or granulomatosis with polyangiitis, or may develop after eye trauma or surgery during service. The VA rates scleritis under the General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Eye.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 60% | Documented incapacitating episodes requiring 7 or more treatment visits for an eye condition during the past 12 months. Alternatively, evaluate on visual impairment if that produces a higher evaluation. |
| 40% | Documented incapacitating episodes requiring at least 5 but less than 7 treatment visits for an eye condition during the past 12 months. |
| 20% | Documented incapacitating episodes requiring at least 3 but less than 5 treatment visits for an eye condition during the past 12 months. |
| 10% | Documented incapacitating episodes requiring at least 1 but less than 3 treatment visits for an eye condition during the past 12 months. |
Evidence Needed
An ophthalmology examination documenting scleritis (distinguishing it from episcleritis) is essential. Records showing the frequency and severity of inflammatory episodes, treatment records including systemic medications used, visual acuity testing during and between episodes, and documentation of any associated autoimmune conditions all strengthen your claim.
C&P Exam Tips
Make sure the examiner distinguishes between scleritis and the less serious episcleritis, as the diagnosis matters for rating. Document episodes with dates, severity, and prescribed treatments. Describe the pain character: deep, boring, worse at night, radiating to the face. If connected to an autoimmune condition, have that documentation ready. Report any vision changes that have occurred during or after episodes.
How to File
File under DC 6002 with ophthalmology records confirming scleritis and documenting episode frequency. If the scleritis is secondary to a service-connected autoimmune condition, include that connection. Also claim any vision loss or complications separately.
Common Mistakes
Having the condition recorded as episcleritis is a frequent problem, since only scleritis is named at DC 6002. Veterans often fail to document the recurrence pattern with ophthalmology records. Not connecting scleritis to an underlying autoimmune condition is another common mistake, along with not claiming complications like glaucoma separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between scleritis and episcleritis?
Scleritis involves deeper inflammation of the scleral tissue and is more serious, painful, and potentially vision-threatening. Episcleritis affects only the superficial tissue and is usually self-limited and benign. The distinction matters for a claim because DC 6002 names scleritis, while episcleritis is not listed by name in 38 CFR 4.79.
Is scleritis linked to autoimmune diseases?
Yes, roughly half of scleritis cases are associated with systemic autoimmune conditions. If you have a service-connected autoimmune disease and develop scleritis, it can be claimed as secondary to that condition.