Labyrinthitis

DC 6204Organs of Sense38 CFR 4.87, DC 6204

Inflammation of the labyrinth (inner ear structures responsible for balance and hearing), causing vertigo, dizziness, nausea, hearing loss, and tinnitus. Can result from inner ear infections, blast exposure, or head trauma during military service. Rated based on the frequency and severity of dizziness and staggering episodes.

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 6204

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.87, DC 6204. 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 labyrinthitis causes constant, debilitating vertigo and imbalance that renders you unable to function independently, with frequent falls and inability to perform any occupational tasks.

What the VA looks for

Constant debilitating vertigo documented
Inability to function independently
Frequent falls requiring assistance
Unable to perform any occupational tasks
Requires assistive devices for ambulation

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not obtaining vestibular function testing (electronystagmography or videonystagmography) — the VA needs objective evidence of inner ear dysfunction, not just symptom reports.
⚠Not keeping a symptom diary documenting the frequency and severity of dizziness episodes — the rating depends on how often staggering occurs.
⚠Failing to claim secondary hearing loss and tinnitus separately — labyrinthitis often causes both, and each can be rated independently.
⚠Not connecting the labyrinthitis to blast exposure, head trauma, or in-service ear infections.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Ear Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Labyrinthitis

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6204

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your labyrinthitis causes constant, debilitating vertigo and imbalance that renders you unable to function independently, with frequent falls and inability to perform any occupational tasks.

What the VA looks for

Constant debilitating vertigo documented
Inability to function independently
Frequent falls requiring assistance
Unable to perform any occupational tasks
Requires assistive devices for ambulation

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not obtaining vestibular function testing (electronystagmography or videonystagmography) — the VA needs objective evidence of inner ear dysfunction, not just symptom reports.

⚠Not keeping a symptom diary documenting the frequency and severity of dizziness episodes — the rating depends on how often staggering occurs.

⚠Failing to claim secondary hearing loss and tinnitus separately — labyrinthitis often causes both, and each can be rated independently.

⚠Not connecting the labyrinthitis to blast exposure, head trauma, or in-service ear infections.