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% | 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
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 misdiagnosed as episcleritis is a frequent problem, since they are rated differently. 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 VA rating purposes because scleritis warrants higher ratings due to its severity.
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.