★ Auditory
Chronic Otitis Media VA Rating
38 CFR § 4.87, Diagnostic Code 6200
Overview
DC 6200 covers chronic suppurative otitis media, mastoiditis, and cholesteatoma.
Rated 10% during periods of suppuration or when aural polyps are present.
Residual hearing loss is rated under DC 6100 and tinnitus under DC 6260.
How to Establish Service Connection
- Direct: documented in-service ear infections or barotrauma.
- Secondary to chronic eustachian tube dysfunction.
Rating Criteria
Paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.87, Diagnostic Code 6200
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Chronic suppuration or with aural polyps (DC 6200). |
| Separate | Hearing loss (DC 6100) and tinnitus (DC 6260) rated separately. |
See what each percentage pays in 2026 and how it combines with your current rating →
Evidence Checklist
- ENT records documenting recurrent infections.
- Audiogram results.
- Imaging if cholesteatoma suspected.
Common Secondary Conditions
Conditions frequently service-connected as secondary to Chronic Otitis Media:
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Chronic Otitis Media claim or denial?
Four fields. A VA-accredited claims agent reviews it and responds within 3–5 business days. Contingent fees apply only to awarded past-due benefits on appeals — never on initial claims.
Requesting a consultation does not create representation and is not a guarantee of any outcome. Representation begins only after a written fee agreement and VA Form 21-22a are signed.
Educational content only — not legal advice and not medical advice. Rating criteria on this page are summarized in plain English from 38 CFR Part 4; consult VA.gov or the current Code of Federal Regulations for official criteria. This page provides general education about how the VA rates this condition; it is not individualized advice, does not establish a representation relationship, and should not be used to self-diagnose, self-treat, or decide a course of action without speaking to a qualified clinician and a VA-accredited representative. Outcomes depend on each veteran's individual facts, evidence, and the adjudicator's judgment; no specific rating, effective date, or other result is guaranteed. Oakridge Claims is a private business and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the US Department of Veterans Affairs.