Optic Neuropathy

DC 6026Organs of Sense38 CFR 4.79, DC 6026

Damage to the optic nerve that carries visual information from the eye to the brain. This can cause blurred vision, loss of color vision, and visual field loss. The VA rates optic neuropathy based on the resulting visual impairment, measured by visual acuity and visual field testing.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 6026

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.79, DC 6026. 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 optic neuropathy has caused total or near-total vision loss in both eyes.

What the VA looks for

Near-total or total bilateral vision loss
Visual acuity worse than 5/200 in both eyes
Severe bilateral optic nerve atrophy
Inability to function independently due to vision loss

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting both visual acuity and visual field testing — optic neuropathy can cause visual field loss that is worse than what acuity testing alone would show.
⚠Not connecting optic neuropathy to military exposures such as toxic chemicals, methanol, blast injuries, or medications taken for other service-connected conditions.
⚠Not documenting color vision loss — optic nerve damage often causes problems seeing colors, which supports the diagnosis even if acuity seems okay.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions like depression or anxiety from progressive vision loss, or connecting it to a primary condition like multiple sclerosis or diabetes.
⚠If your optic neuropathy is getting worse over time, make sure to file for an increased rating — regular eye exams documenting progression are important evidence.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Eye Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Optic Neuropathy or rated under the same body system.

Tinnitus

DC 6260·Organs of Sense

Bilateral Hearing Loss

DC 6100·Organs of Sense

Meniere's Disease (Endolymphatic Hydrops)

DC 6205·Organs of Sense

Dry Eye Syndrome

DC 6025·Organs of Sense

Glaucoma

DC 6012·Organs of Sense

Cataracts

DC 6027·Organs of Sense

Peripheral Vestibular Disorder

DC 6204·Organs of Sense

Diabetic Retinopathy

DC 6006·Organs of Sense

Condition Rating Guides

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

Optic Neuropathy

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 6026

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your optic neuropathy has caused total or near-total vision loss in both eyes.

What the VA looks for

Near-total or total bilateral vision loss
Visual acuity worse than 5/200 in both eyes
Severe bilateral optic nerve atrophy
Inability to function independently due to vision loss

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting both visual acuity and visual field testing — optic neuropathy can cause visual field loss that is worse than what acuity testing alone would show.

⚠Not connecting optic neuropathy to military exposures such as toxic chemicals, methanol, blast injuries, or medications taken for other service-connected conditions.

⚠Not documenting color vision loss — optic nerve damage often causes problems seeing colors, which supports the diagnosis even if acuity seems okay.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions like depression or anxiety from progressive vision loss, or connecting it to a primary condition like multiple sclerosis or diabetes.

⚠If your optic neuropathy is getting worse over time, make sure to file for an increased rating — regular eye exams documenting progression are important evidence.