Chronic otitis externa

DC 6210 Ears

Chronic otitis externa is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 6210 in the Ears category. Maximum rating: 10%.

Rating Criteria

Rating Criteria
10% With swelling and itching sensation of the outer ear canal, with dry flakes or with a liquid coming from the inner ear. Condition requires frequent **AND** prolonged treatment.

Filing Tips

Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.

Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.

Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.

Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.

Review the rating criteria for DC 6210 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.