Mastoiditis Residuals

DC 6200Organs of Sense38 CFR 4.87, DC 6200

Residual problems from infection of the mastoid bone behind the ear, often following chronic middle ear infections. Mastoidectomy surgery may be required. Can cause hearing loss, ear drainage, and balance problems.

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 6200

Rating range

0% – 10%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.87, DC 6200. 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 mastoiditis residuals include active ear drainage (suppuration) during the suppurative process, or you have a mastoid cavity requiring ongoing care.

What the VA looks for

Active ear drainage (suppuration) documented
Mastoid cavity requiring regular cleaning
ENT treatment records showing ongoing care
Aural toilet or debridement performed regularly

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not rating hearing loss separately — mastoiditis and mastoidectomy often cause hearing loss that should be rated independently under DC 6100, in addition to the 10% for suppuration.
⚠Not documenting ongoing ear drainage — the 10% rating requires active suppuration. Keep a log of drainage episodes and bring it to your C&P exam.
⚠Failing to connect mastoiditis to military service — chronic ear infections from water exposure, blast injuries, or military diving are well-documented causes.
⚠Not claiming vertigo or balance problems as secondary conditions — damage to the inner ear from mastoiditis can cause vestibular symptoms rated separately.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Ear 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 6200

Rating range

0% – 10%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your mastoiditis residuals include active ear drainage (suppuration) during the suppurative process, or you have a mastoid cavity requiring ongoing care.

What the VA looks for

Active ear drainage (suppuration) documented
Mastoid cavity requiring regular cleaning
ENT treatment records showing ongoing care
Aural toilet or debridement performed regularly

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not rating hearing loss separately — mastoiditis and mastoidectomy often cause hearing loss that should be rated independently under DC 6100, in addition to the 10% for suppuration.

⚠Not documenting ongoing ear drainage — the 10% rating requires active suppuration. Keep a log of drainage episodes and bring it to your C&P exam.

⚠Failing to connect mastoiditis to military service — chronic ear infections from water exposure, blast injuries, or military diving are well-documented causes.

⚠Not claiming vertigo or balance problems as secondary conditions — damage to the inner ear from mastoiditis can cause vestibular symptoms rated separately.