Central Visual Acuity Impairment — Scotoma

DC 6081Organs of Sense38 CFR 4.79, DC 6081

A scotoma is a blind spot or area of reduced vision in the visual field, most commonly in the central visual field. Central scotomas make it difficult to see objects directly in front of you, affecting reading, facial recognition, and driving. The VA rates scotomas based on the resulting visual acuity impairment or visual field loss.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 6081

Rating range

10% – 50%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.79, DC 6081. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have bilateral central scotomas causing severe visual impairment affecting both eyes, with significant difficulty performing daily activities independently.

What the VA looks for

Bilateral central scotomas documented
Visual acuity 20/200 or worse in both eyes
Unable to read, drive, or recognize faces
Low vision rehabilitation required
Significant dependence on others for daily tasks

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not requesting visual field testing (perimetry) in addition to standard visual acuity testing — a scotoma may reduce functional vision more than the Snellen chart alone shows, especially if the blind spot is paracentral.
⚠Not connecting the scotoma to its underlying cause for service connection — common causes include optic neuritis from TBI, macular damage from toxic exposures, or retinal damage from blast injuries.
⚠Not documenting functional limitations beyond the eye chart — describe how the blind spot affects reading, facial recognition, computer use, and driving in your personal statement.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — central vision loss commonly causes depression, anxiety, and occupational impairment that can be rated separately.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Eye Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Central Visual Acuity Impairment — Scotoma

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6081

Rating range

10% – 50%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have bilateral central scotomas causing severe visual impairment affecting both eyes, with significant difficulty performing daily activities independently.

What the VA looks for

Bilateral central scotomas documented
Visual acuity 20/200 or worse in both eyes
Unable to read, drive, or recognize faces
Low vision rehabilitation required
Significant dependence on others for daily tasks

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not requesting visual field testing (perimetry) in addition to standard visual acuity testing — a scotoma may reduce functional vision more than the Snellen chart alone shows, especially if the blind spot is paracentral.

⚠Not connecting the scotoma to its underlying cause for service connection — common causes include optic neuritis from TBI, macular damage from toxic exposures, or retinal damage from blast injuries.

⚠Not documenting functional limitations beyond the eye chart — describe how the blind spot affects reading, facial recognition, computer use, and driving in your personal statement.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — central vision loss commonly causes depression, anxiety, and occupational impairment that can be rated separately.