Dacryocystitis (Lacrimal Duct Disorder)

DC 6025Organs of Sense38 CFR 4.79, DC 6025

Chronic infection or blockage of the tear drainage system (lacrimal sac and nasolacrimal duct). Causes excessive tearing, eye discharge, and recurrent infections. Can result from facial injuries or chronic sinus conditions during military service.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how often symptoms occur and how severe each episode is. The examiner will ask about the frequency, duration, and intensity of your episodes, as well as how they affect your ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 6025

Rating range

0% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.79, DC 6025. 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

Your dacryocystitis is bilateral with chronic tearing and frequent infections in both eyes, or you have had surgical intervention with persistent symptoms.

What the VA looks for

Bilateral dacryocystitis documented
Chronic bilateral epiphora
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery records
Persistent symptoms despite surgical intervention
Impact on daily functioning and employment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the chronic nature of the condition — isolated episodes may be considered acute and resolved. Keep records of every recurrence, antibiotic course, and ophthalmology visit.
⚠Not connecting dacryocystitis to a service-connected facial injury or sinus condition — nasolacrimal duct blockage often results from facial trauma or chronic sinusitis.
⚠Failing to report how constant tearing affects your work — particularly for veterans in jobs requiring clear vision, the functional impact of chronic epiphora should be documented.
⚠Not claiming secondary conditions like chronic conjunctivitis or skin irritation from constant tearing, which may warrant additional ratings.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Eye Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6025

Rating range

0% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your dacryocystitis is bilateral with chronic tearing and frequent infections in both eyes, or you have had surgical intervention with persistent symptoms.

What the VA looks for

Bilateral dacryocystitis documented
Chronic bilateral epiphora
Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery records
Persistent symptoms despite surgical intervention
Impact on daily functioning and employment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the chronic nature of the condition — isolated episodes may be considered acute and resolved. Keep records of every recurrence, antibiotic course, and ophthalmology visit.

⚠Not connecting dacryocystitis to a service-connected facial injury or sinus condition — nasolacrimal duct blockage often results from facial trauma or chronic sinusitis.

⚠Failing to report how constant tearing affects your work — particularly for veterans in jobs requiring clear vision, the functional impact of chronic epiphora should be documented.

⚠Not claiming secondary conditions like chronic conjunctivitis or skin irritation from constant tearing, which may warrant additional ratings.