Herpetic Keratitis (Corneal Herpes)

DC 6001Organs of Sense38 CFR 4.79, DC 6001

A viral infection of the cornea caused by the herpes simplex virus. It can cause recurring eye inflammation, scarring, and vision loss. Stress and UV exposure during military service can trigger recurrences.

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 6001

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.79, DC 6001. 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 herpetic keratitis has caused significant corneal scarring and vision loss with marked reduction in corrected visual acuity.

What the VA looks for

Significant corneal scarring or opacity
Corrected visual acuity 20/100 to 20/200
Frequent recurrences despite prophylaxis
Consideration for corneal transplant documented
Significant functional limitations

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the recurrence pattern — the VA needs to see how often your keratitis flares up and how long each episode lasts, since it may be in remission at the time of your C&P exam.
⚠Not connecting the initial HSV infection to military service — stress, UV exposure, and crowded living conditions during deployment are known triggers.
⚠Failing to request an exam during an active flare-up — if your exam occurs during remission, the examiner may not see active pathology. Submit photos and treatment records from flare-ups.
⚠Not claiming secondary conditions such as corneal scarring, dry eye, or photophobia that result from repeated herpetic keratitis episodes.

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 6001

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your herpetic keratitis has caused significant corneal scarring and vision loss with marked reduction in corrected visual acuity.

What the VA looks for

Significant corneal scarring or opacity
Corrected visual acuity 20/100 to 20/200
Frequent recurrences despite prophylaxis
Consideration for corneal transplant documented
Significant functional limitations

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the recurrence pattern — the VA needs to see how often your keratitis flares up and how long each episode lasts, since it may be in remission at the time of your C&P exam.

⚠Not connecting the initial HSV infection to military service — stress, UV exposure, and crowded living conditions during deployment are known triggers.

⚠Failing to request an exam during an active flare-up — if your exam occurs during remission, the examiner may not see active pathology. Submit photos and treatment records from flare-ups.

⚠Not claiming secondary conditions such as corneal scarring, dry eye, or photophobia that result from repeated herpetic keratitis episodes.