VA Disability Rating for Tuberculosis of the Eye (DC 6010)
Diagnostic Code 6010 · 38 CFR §4.79
What Is It?
Ocular tuberculosis occurs when TB bacteria infect the eye, most commonly affecting the choroid and retina but potentially involving any ocular structure. The condition can cause severe inflammation, vision loss, and structural damage to the eye. Veterans who contracted pulmonary TB during service may develop ocular involvement as the bacteria spread through the bloodstream. Treatment requires the same prolonged multi-drug antibiotic regimen as systemic TB, combined with anti-inflammatory eye medications. Even after successful treatment, permanent scarring and vision loss may remain. Under the CFR, active ocular TB receives a mandatory 100% rating. When inactive, it is evaluated under the graduated rating provisions of 38 CFR 4.88c or 4.89, whichever is appropriate.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Active tuberculosis of the eye receives a mandatory 100% rating. When inactive, the condition is evaluated under the graduated rating provisions of 38 CFR 4.88c or 4.89, or based on residual visual impairment, whichever is more favorable. |
Evidence Needed
Ophthalmology records confirming ocular TB diagnosis are essential. Systemic TB testing results (tuberculin skin test, interferon-gamma release assay), retinal imaging showing choroidal granulomas or other TB-related changes, treatment records including anti-TB medications and ocular anti-inflammatory therapy, and visual function testing documenting residual impairment all strengthen your claim.
C&P Exam Tips
Bring documentation of both the ocular and systemic TB diagnosis. Have retinal imaging showing the TB lesions and any scarring. Include visual acuity and visual field test results. Document the treatment regimen and any complications. If ocular TB is secondary to pulmonary TB, make that connection explicit in your documentation.
How to File
File under DC 6010 with ophthalmology and infectious disease records. If secondary to service-connected pulmonary TB, establish that connection. When the disease becomes inactive, the VA will evaluate under the graduated rating provisions or based on residual visual impairment.
Common Mistakes
Not connecting ocular TB to a previously diagnosed pulmonary TB from service is the most common mistake. Failing to document retinal scarring with imaging after treatment, not checking whether visual impairment codes would provide a higher rating when the disease becomes inactive, and overlooking glaucoma from chronic inflammation as a secondary condition are other frequent errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does TB affect the eyes?
TB bacteria can reach the eye through the bloodstream from a lung infection. They most commonly form granulomas (inflammatory nodules) in the choroid layer beneath the retina. These can cause inflammation, fluid leakage, and vision-threatening damage. Even after the bacteria are killed with antibiotics, the scarring from the granulomas remains permanent.
Can I claim this as secondary to service-connected pulmonary TB?
Yes. Ocular TB developing in a veteran with service-connected pulmonary TB is a strong secondary claim since the eye infection represents spread of the same bacteria. Include your pulmonary TB service connection and infectious disease records documenting the relationship.