Chronic Otitis Media

DC 6200Organs of Sense38 CFR 4.87, DC 6200

A long-lasting infection of the middle ear that can cause ear drainage, hearing loss, and recurrent infections. The VA rates chronic otitis media based on whether the infection is actively draining (suppurative) or has healed.

Rating Levels

You have active ear discharge (suppuration) from chronic otitis media, or you have aural polyps.

What the VA looks for

Active ear discharge documented
Aural polyps on examination
Culture results showing active infection
Ongoing treatment for suppurative otitis media

Common Pitfalls

⚠The maximum rating for otitis media alone is only 10% — but hearing loss, tinnitus, and complications like cholesteatoma or mastoiditis should each be claimed separately for a higher combined rating.
⚠Not documenting all episodes of active ear drainage with treatment records.
⚠Not connecting chronic ear infections to acoustic trauma, blast exposure, or swimming requirements during service.
⚠Not getting an audiogram to document any hearing loss caused by chronic infection.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Ear Conditions (including Tinnitus)

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…