Epilepsy — Petit Mal (Absence)

DC 8911Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8911 — Epilepsy, Petit Mal

A seizure disorder causing brief episodes of staring or loss of awareness (absence seizures) without the convulsions seen in grand mal seizures. The VA rates petit mal epilepsy based on how often seizures happen.

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 8911

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8911 — Epilepsy, Petit Mal. 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 average at least one major seizure per month over the last year.

What the VA looks for

12 or more major seizures per year
Monthly or more frequent seizure episodes
Comprehensive seizure documentation

Common Pitfalls

⚠Absence seizures are brief and easy to miss — others may think you are daydreaming. Get buddy statements from people who have witnessed your episodes.
⚠Not getting EEG testing — petit mal seizures have a characteristic brainwave pattern that helps confirm the diagnosis objectively.
⚠Not documenting how seizures affect your ability to work safely — even brief absences can be dangerous if you operate machinery, drive, or work at heights.
⚠Not tracking minor seizures carefully — because they are brief, they are easy to undercount. Keep a detailed log.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — seizure medications often cause side effects (fatigue, cognitive slowing, mood changes) that may warrant separate evaluation.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Seizure Disorders (Epilepsy)

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Epilepsy — Petit Mal (Absence) or rated under the same body system.

Migraine Headaches

DC 8100·Neurological

Radiculopathy — Sciatic Nerve

DC 8520·Neurological

Peripheral Neuropathy — Lower Extremities

DC 8520·Neurological

Peripheral Neuropathy — Upper Extremities

DC 8515·Neurological

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

DC 8045·Neurological

Epilepsy — Grand Mal (Generalized Convulsive)

DC 8910·Neurological

Trigeminal Neuralgia

DC 8205·Neurological

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

DC 8515·Neurological

Condition Rating Guides

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

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 8911

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You average at least one major seizure per month over the last year.

What the VA looks for

12 or more major seizures per year
Monthly or more frequent seizure episodes
Comprehensive seizure documentation

Common Pitfalls

⚠Absence seizures are brief and easy to miss — others may think you are daydreaming. Get buddy statements from people who have witnessed your episodes.

⚠Not getting EEG testing — petit mal seizures have a characteristic brainwave pattern that helps confirm the diagnosis objectively.

⚠Not documenting how seizures affect your ability to work safely — even brief absences can be dangerous if you operate machinery, drive, or work at heights.

⚠Not tracking minor seizures carefully — because they are brief, they are easy to undercount. Keep a detailed log.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — seizure medications often cause side effects (fatigue, cognitive slowing, mood changes) that may warrant separate evaluation.