Otosclerosis

DC 6202Organs of Sense38 CFR 4.87, DC 6202

A condition where abnormal bone growth in the middle ear prevents the tiny bones from vibrating properly, causing hearing loss. The VA rates otosclerosis based on whether hearing impairment is present. Hearing loss itself is rated separately under DC 6100 based on audiometric testing. The maximum rating under DC 6202 alone is 10%.

Rating Levels

Your otosclerosis has caused hearing impairment that requires a hearing aid. This is the maximum rating under DC 6202. Your hearing loss is also rated separately under DC 6100 based on audiometric testing.

What the VA looks for

Otosclerosis confirmed on examination
Hearing impairment documented on audiogram
Hearing aid prescribed or required
Conductive hearing loss pattern on audiometric testing

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding that the DC 6202 rating (maximum 10%) is separate from the hearing loss rating under DC 6100 — you should file for both to get the highest combined rating.
⚠Not getting a proper audiogram with both air and bone conduction testing — the "air-bone gap" pattern is the key finding that confirms otosclerosis and supports your claim.
⚠Not documenting the progressive nature of your hearing loss — otosclerosis often gets worse over time, so regular audiograms showing decline are valuable evidence.
⚠Not connecting otosclerosis to military noise exposure or head trauma during service — while otosclerosis has a genetic component, service-related factors can aggravate it.
⚠If you had a stapedectomy (ear surgery) to treat otosclerosis, make sure to document the surgical history and any ongoing complications or residual hearing loss.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Ear Conditions (including Tinnitus)

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Otosclerosis

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Otosclerosis confirmed on examination
Hearing impairment documented on audiogram
Hearing aid prescribed or required
Conductive hearing loss pattern on audiometric testing

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding that the DC 6202 rating (maximum 10%) is separate from the hearing loss rating under DC 6100 — you should file for both to get the highest combined rating.

⚠Not getting a proper audiogram with both air and bone conduction testing — the "air-bone gap" pattern is the key finding that confirms otosclerosis and supports your claim.

⚠Not documenting the progressive nature of your hearing loss — otosclerosis often gets worse over time, so regular audiograms showing decline are valuable evidence.

⚠Not connecting otosclerosis to military noise exposure or head trauma during service — while otosclerosis has a genetic component, service-related factors can aggravate it.

⚠If you had a stapedectomy (ear surgery) to treat otosclerosis, make sure to document the surgical history and any ongoing complications or residual hearing loss.