CTE Symptoms

DC 8045Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8045

Symptoms linked to chronic traumatic encephalopathy from repeated head injuries during military service. Because CTE cannot be definitively diagnosed in living patients, the VA rates these symptoms as TBI residuals. Common symptoms include memory loss, mood changes, confusion, and difficulty with thinking and judgment.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 8045

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8045. 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 total impairment in one or more areas of brain function. You may be unable to care for yourself, be completely disoriented, or have severe memory loss preventing independent living.

What the VA looks for

Total impairment on one or more TBI evaluation facets
Inability to perform activities of daily living without assistance
Persistent disorientation to time, place, or person
Requires constant supervision or institutional care
Complete inability to maintain any employment

Common Pitfalls

⚠CTE cannot be confirmed with a diagnosis while you are alive — the VA rates these symptoms as TBI residuals under DC 8045. Focus your claim on documented head injuries and current functional deficits, not on proving a CTE diagnosis.
⚠Not documenting the history of repeated head injuries — blast exposures, contact sports in the military, vehicle accidents, and falls should all be documented in service records and buddy statements.
⚠Not getting comprehensive neuropsychological testing — this is the best way to objectively document cognitive deficits from repeated head trauma and is more detailed than a standard C&P exam.
⚠Failing to file separately for secondary conditions — repeated head injuries can cause migraines, depression, PTSD, sleep disorders, vision problems, and balance issues that each warrant separate ratings.
⚠Not connecting the timeline of symptoms to service — show how cognitive and behavioral changes progressed after repeated head injuries during military service.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Traumatic Brain Injury

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

CTE Symptoms

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 8045

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have total impairment in one or more areas of brain function. You may be unable to care for yourself, be completely disoriented, or have severe memory loss preventing independent living.

What the VA looks for

Total impairment on one or more TBI evaluation facets
Inability to perform activities of daily living without assistance
Persistent disorientation to time, place, or person
Requires constant supervision or institutional care
Complete inability to maintain any employment

Common Pitfalls

⚠CTE cannot be confirmed with a diagnosis while you are alive — the VA rates these symptoms as TBI residuals under DC 8045. Focus your claim on documented head injuries and current functional deficits, not on proving a CTE diagnosis.

⚠Not documenting the history of repeated head injuries — blast exposures, contact sports in the military, vehicle accidents, and falls should all be documented in service records and buddy statements.

⚠Not getting comprehensive neuropsychological testing — this is the best way to objectively document cognitive deficits from repeated head trauma and is more detailed than a standard C&P exam.

⚠Failing to file separately for secondary conditions — repeated head injuries can cause migraines, depression, PTSD, sleep disorders, vision problems, and balance issues that each warrant separate ratings.

⚠Not connecting the timeline of symptoms to service — show how cognitive and behavioral changes progressed after repeated head injuries during military service.